Editor’s note: This guest column was written in collaboration with independent contributors and reflects guidance from community-based legal education experts.
As families across Los Angeles navigate daily life, shifting immigration policies and uneven enforcement practices continue to raise questions and concerns. Many parents still wonder what rights they have, what to expect during an encounter with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and how best to prepare their loved ones for unexpected situations.
Understanding the basics can help families feel more prepared and less fearful.
Myth No. 1: Some people are safe from ICE enforcement
One of the most persistent misconceptions is the belief that immigration enforcement only affects undocumented individuals. According to the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), the situation is more complex. In recent years (and days), people who are citizens, permanent residents or long-term community members have reported being questioned or stopped because of racial profiling.
“If you happen to be brown or darker and you fit a distorted description, you are not automatically safe,” Leiva explains. “Even those who are United States born or naturalized have been stopped. Unfortunately, racial profiling is occurring even though it is illegal.”
Because of this reality, CHIRLA encourages all families to understand their basic rights and to stay informed about how enforcement actions may unfold.
Understanding your rights. What to say and what not to say.
For individuals who do not have immigration protections, Leiva highlights two long-standing constitutional rights that CHIRLA teaches in its community workshops.
First is the right to remain silent. You can say clearly and calmly, “I am using my right to remain silent. I will not answer questions without my attorney present.” Speaking voluntarily or answering follow-up questions can unintentionally incriminate you.
Second is the right to refuse a search. You can state, “I do not consent to a search.” This must be said clearly and repeatedly when needed.
These steps do not control how an officer will behave, but CHIRLA teaches them as part of a broader effort to help community members understand their legal rights and to document if those rights are ignored.
What happens if ICE approaches you in a vehicle
Vehicle encounters can be confusing. In California, many undocumented residents have a legal driver’s license through AB 60, which allows them to drive safely and register their vehicles. However, because the AB 60 license is marked, CHIRLA explains that individuals should pay attention to who is stopping them.
If the stop involves local police, sheriff deputies or the California Highway Patrol, CHIRLA notes that people may show their license. State and local law enforcement in California are prohibited by SB 54 from asking about immigration status.
When the stop involves federal officers, including ICE, Leiva explains that individuals may choose not to provide any document connected to immigration status and may again use their right to remain silent and to decline a search. Even though federal officers do not always follow established procedures, CHIRLA teaches that these rights remain important for later legal review.
Why documentation and recording matter
Leiva shared that CHIRLA encourages community members to understand the value of documentation. Recordings can help clarify what took place and can support legal assistance if a person’s rights were violated.
California residents have the right to record law enforcement in public spaces as long as they do not interfere with the officers’ work. CHIRLA recommends recording from a reasonable distance and using the zoom feature on a phone when needed. If a person must leave a vehicle, placing the phone on the ground with audio recording active may capture important information.
CHIRLA also advises families to keep copies of key documents. For permanent residents, this may include a green card or secure photos of the card’s front and back. Having a trusted family member store a copy can be helpful in emergencies.
Preparedness is essential for every household
CHIRLA encourages families, regardless of immigration status, to discuss and maintain a basic preparedness plan. This may include:
• Updated identity documents
• Emergency contacts and attorney numbers
• Childcare arrangements
• A shared plan that every family member understands
While no plan can predict every situation, having shared information helps reduce uncertainty if someone is unexpectedly detained.
Five rapid reminders for every parent
Leiva offers five broad reminders that CHIRLA often shares with families. These suggestions are relevant for all households, regardless of ethnicity or immigration status.
- Stay informed. Follow trusted organizations and participate in workshops.
- Keep your personal documents current and accessible.
- Maintain a clear family preparedness plan. Review it often.
- Save contact information for trusted immigration attorneys or community organizations.
- Protect your mental health. Avoid unreliable social media content and seek support when needed.
Moving forward with knowledge and community support
As Los Angeles prepares for political and policy shifts in the coming years, CHIRLA aims to ensure that families have access to clear, reliable information. CHIRLA’s guidance remains grounded in community education, legal awareness and the belief that informed families are better positioned to protect themselves.
“No one should face these situations alone,” Leiva says. “When we are informed and organized, we protect each other.”
Families seeking trusted legal information, immigrant rights resources and community support can learn more through the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) at chirla.org.
Isaac Cox is a freelance writer based in Los Angeles and Winston Leiva is the Community Education Programs Manager for Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA).
