Avelar Reminds Residents of their Rights as Threat of Immigration Raids Looms

Romeoville, Ill. – As communities brace for the threat of federal immigration raids, state Rep. Dagmara Avelar is encouraging residents to know their rights under Illinois state law intended to check unlawful harassment and racial profiling.

“The Trump Administration has long threatened our immigrant communities with immigration raids and deportations creating fear for long established undocumented immigrants,” said Avelar. “Sources reveal that crackdowns will begin as early as Tuesday in the Chicago area as part of a ‘targeted operation’ but we all know everyone may be at risk of being targeted, stopped and questioned. Know that Illinois will continue to combat the federal immigration agenda and will continue to be a sanctuary city for all immigrants, documented or undocumented. Know Your Rights.”

Rep. Avelar is reminding residents of their rights under Illinois state law, including the Illinois Trust Act and the VOICES Act, which protects all residents from warrantless arrest in a variety of safe spaces, including churches, schools, hospitals, and group homes.

Additionally, immigrant-rights experts are reminding residents to:
– Refuse to open the door to their home unless presented with a warrant signed by a judge.
– Exercise the right to remain silent and not answer questions.
– Do not sign anything without speaking to an attorney.
– If detained, get a lawyer trained in immigration law. Call the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights helpline at 1-855-435-7693 to connect with experts in immigration law.

For additional resources and tips, visit icirr.org or immigrantjustice.org.