Illinois Launches 'Know Your Rights' Cards To Help Immigrants

By Stephen Gossett in News on Jun 1, 2017 9:45PM

Photo: Tyler LaRiviere

As undocumented groups of people face fear and uncertainty amid the president's anti-immigration policies and threats against sanctuary cities, the state attorney general launched materials to help make sure immigrants know their rights when interacting with law enforcement.

Along with resources for the consulates and non-profits, the 'Know Your Rights" campaign includes a pocket-sized summary reference.

“Every Illinois resident has constitutional rights regardless of their citizenship or immigration status,” Madigan said in a statement on Wednesday. “It is critical that all Illinois residents know their rights when they encounter law enforcement. I encourage people to read and carry a Know Your Rights card with them in case they are approached by authorities."

Printable guides can be found here (in English) and here (in Spanish). They include reminders to note if one is confronted by police or Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, if law enforcement comes to one's home or if an arrest is made. Other resources—including tips for access to legal services and immigration services providers—are also linked.

Madigan created the “Know Your Rights” materials as immigration arrests increase under the current administration. Earlier this month, ICE reported that federal immigration agents are arresting more than 400 immigrants a day, with the most drastic increase in arrests among immigrants who have never been convicted of a crime. There hasn't yet been evidence of increased immigration enforcement in Chicago specifically, but immigration-related arrests have gone up in the U.S. under President Donald Trump's tenure.