Know Your Rights: Essential Resources for Immigrant Neighbors
Amid heightened uncertainty, knowing your rights is vital for immigrants and their advocates. ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative and the Archdiocese of Dubuque offer multilingual tools like Red Cards, family safety plans, and legal support directories to help communities stay prepared. View these pages for a comprehensive list of resources and how to share them in your congregation.
Explore the complete resource list and find materials in multiple languages by visiting the ELCA’s Know Your Rights page and the Archdiocese of Dubuque’s Safety Planning page.
The ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative reminds us of the call to accompany and protect our immigrant neighbors, offering critical resources for navigating uncertain times. Whether you are an immigrant, an advocate, or a concerned neighbor, understanding and asserting rights is essential to supporting vulnerable communities.
What You Need to Know
Everyone in the U.S., regardless of immigration status, has rights under the Constitution. These resources provide guidance on asserting these rights and preparing for interactions with law enforcement or immigration authorities. For instance, the Red Card offers a concise way to assert rights during encounters with officials. It’s available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Tagalog, and Tongan.
Key Topics and Tools
Family Preparation Plans: Resources like the Immigrant Legal Resource Center’s step-by-step guide help families prepare for emergencies.
What to Do if ICE Arrives: Find multilingual guides from organizations like the ACLU and Informed Immigrant, detailing steps for home, work, and public spaces.
Sensitive Locations: Stay updated on protected areas through resources from Global Refuge.
For legal help, visit AILA’s Immigration Lawyer Directory. For mental health or trafficking support, access the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
The Archdiocese of Dubuque also provides Know Your Rights Safety Planning materials, including printable handouts, wallet cards, and family safety plans, available in English and Spanish. Explore their multilingual video library for guidance in French, Swahili, Dari, and more.
A Call to Action
As Lutherans, we are called to walk alongside our immigrant neighbors, advocating for justice and offering tangible support. Share these resources in your communities and congregations to ensure that no one faces these challenges alone.