Please utilize the NIAC Web site for additional information on civil rights and discrimination issues. NIAC'S DISCRIMINATION CENTER Discrimination is defined as treating one person unfairly over another according to factors unrelated to their ability or potential, such as age, disability, sex, or national origin.
Most Americans can't imagine being corralled at the workplace or woken up in the middle of the night by strangers and forced to supply proof of citizenship. Yet that's exactly what happens to many immigrants in this country whether they are here legally or not, despite the Fourth Amendment's prohibition of warrantless intrusions into private homes, which apply to all persons, regardless of immigration status.
Yet Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has aggressively stepped up enforcement efforts by conducting numerous and far-reaching worksite and residential raids. ICE is known to engage in a pattern and practice of selectively targeting predominantly Latino neighborhoods and worksites; entering people's homes without proper warrants; and manipulating, coercing or intimidating already scared individuals to consent to enter their homes in order to conduct interrogations about their immigration status.
Looking Latino or Middle-Eastern and speaking Spanish or another language is not enough to justify probable cause for questioning and arresting a person. We live in a country where the Constitution ensures that all persons should be given equal protection and fair treatment under the law regardless of the color of their skin, their appearance or their accent.
To fight police abuse effectively you need to know your rights. There are some things you should do, some things you must do and some things you cannot do. If you are in the middle of a police encounter, you need a handy and quick reference to remind you what your rights and obligations are. Print this page and carry it in your wallet, pocket, or glove compartment to give you quick access to your rights and obligations concerning police encounters.
Think carefully about your words, movement, body language, and emotions. Don't get into an argument with the police. Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you. Keep your hands where the police can see them. Don't run. Don't touch any police officer. Do not resist even if you believe you are innocent. Do not make any statement regarding the incident. Ask for a lawyer immediately after your arrest.
