5 Key Tips to Protect Yourself from ICE if You’re on the Street or Protesting

• Here are 5 key tips to protect yourself from ICE while you’re out on the street.
• Know your rights.
• How to act if ICE stops you in public.

Immigration raids in cities like Los Angeles, along with the deployment of troops and the National Guard in states like Texas and California, have heightened tensions between authorities and migrant communities.

If you’re undocumented or participating in a protest, it’s essential to know your rights.

And to be prepared in case of an encounter with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

Here are five essential recommendations to protect yourself:

5 Key Tips to Protect Yourself from ICE if You’re on the Street

1. Don’t Reveal Your Immigration Status

You have the right to remain silent.

If an ICE agent stops you, you are not obligated to answer questions about your immigration status, country of origin, or how you arrived in the U.S.

You can say:

“I refuse to answer” or “I want to speak to a lawyer.”

2. Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice

ICE may present documents for you to sign, such as voluntary deportation orders.

Do not sign anything without first consulting a lawyer.

Signing something you don’t understand can harm your immigration case—

And could speed up a deportation process.

3. Carry a “Know Your Rights” Card

At protests or in public spaces, carrying a card that outlines your rights can be useful to protect yourself from ICE.

This card may state that you are exercising your right to remain silent—

and that you wish to speak with an attorney.

You can show it without speaking.

4. Don’t Open the Door Without a Warrant

ICE cannot enter your home without a signed warrant.

The warrant must bear a judge’s signature.

If they show up, ask to see the warrant through a window or under the door.

Do not open the door unless the warrant is properly signed and includes your name.

5. Record and Document

You have the right to record in public places.

If you see someone being detained by ICE, document the situation safely.

Recording abuses or irregularities can be helpful.

Especially in any future legal proceedings.

What Comes Next to Protect Yourself from ICE

Various organizations such as ACLU, United We Dream, and NILC are offering free legal resources and assistance in many cities.

Stay informed and share this information with your community.

Prevention is key to protecting your safety and that of your loved ones.

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