Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia hosted a Know Your Rights Town Halls meeting at the Houston Community College Northline campus on January 29, 2025. The event provided essential information about the constitutional rights and responsibilities undocumented immigrants should know when encountering immigration enforcement officials, such as ICE.
President Trump had announced a crackdown on immigration, starting January 21, and issued an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship. The community immediately felt the impact of this agenda.
Community leaders, including Congressman Turner and Congressman Green, attended the meeting to express their support for the community. “We will get through this together,” said Congressman Turner. In response to media reports about ICE officers arresting a parent while dropping their children off at school in Chicago, Congressman Green addressed parents’ fears for their children’s safety, emphasizing, “It’s all about the children. Children should never come home to find that their parents are missing.”
Sylvia Mintz, a lawyer in private practice and an advocate for constitutional rights, shared critical information about knowing and exercising one’s rights. She highlighted the importance of carrying a “red card” and distributed copies of a helpful guide for the community. Various leaders provided useful tips to keep attendees informed about their constitutional rights.
It is important for your family, friends, and neighbors to be prepared for any situation. Here are useful tips to keep in mind if encountered with immigration enforcement:
- DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking without a warrant or court order to enter.
- DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.
- DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.
- If your are being questioned outside of the house, SHOW THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. Ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they comply, leave calmly.
**Red Card is linked for you to print and keep! It is necessary for times like this. Keep it in your wallet, bag, backpack, or even in your pocket. This card also have in Spanish. Please share this with your loved ones.**
