Understanding your rights and making plans for emergencies can help you and your family feel more prepared and supported in the U.S., especially when immigration-related laws and policies change or are difficult to understand. The resources below provide reliable information about your rights and protections in the U.S., steps you can take to help protect those rights, and ways you and your family can plan for emergencies.
Family Preparedness Plan
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RESOURCES: Family Preparedness Planning
Family Preparedness Plan
Family Preparedness Plan
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Kids In Need of Defense (KIND)
Description: This 7-page document helps families prepare for emergencies by organizing important documents, identifying trusted caregivers, and planning for children’s care if a parent is unavailable.
Safety Planning
Safety Planning
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This two-page document provides practical steps families can take to prepare for unexpected immigration-related situations and protect children during emergencies.
ReadyNow! by Human Rights First
ReadyNow! by Human Rights First
Resource Type: Website
Source: Human Rights First
Languages: Website available in English and Spanish
Description: This website walks through the ReadyNow! App and how it can help you securely organize important documents, emergency contacts, and preparedness plans in one place, in case of possible detention or crisis.
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Stops You on the Street
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Stops You on the Street
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page document provides practical guidance on your rights and steps to take if approached by law enforcement or immigration officers in public.
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Comes to Your Home
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Comes to Your Home
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This two-page document explains what to do if immigration officers come to your home, including your rights regarding entry and search warrants.
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Stops You in Your Vehicle
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Stops You in Your Vehicle
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page document outlines your rights and offers guidance on how to respond calmly and safely during a traffic stop.
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Comes to Your Workplace
If a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer Comes to Your Workplace
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page document helps workers understand their rights if immigration officers visit their workplace and explains how employers and employees may respond.
If You Are Detained by a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer
If You Are Detained by a Law Enforcement of Immigration Officer
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page document explains important legal rights after detention and provides guidance on requesting legal assistance.
If You Are Questioned About Your Immigration Status
If You Are Questioned About Your Immigration Status
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page document describes your rights when asked about your immigration status and explains when you may choose to remain silent or speak with an attorney.
Law Enforcement Officers
Law Enforcement Officers
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page document provides information on different times of law enforcement officers, and how to identify them.