We do not know if immigrant training is taking place yet in Kentucky, but recent news articles say some advocacy groups around the nation are trying to help undocumented immigrants prepare for the possibility that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials (ICE) will one day knock on their doors.
The trainers say it’s important for everyone to remember that even those people here in the U.S. illegally have constitutional rights. So when ICE agents knock on your front door, the trainers say, don’t answer the door and don’t open it — not even a little bit.
The reasoning for not opening the door even a little is that to do so might give agents a peek inside that could give them probable cause needed to enter without a search warrant.
According to a report from CNBC, the training by immigration rights advocates is going on already in New York City, with sessions scheduled in New Mexico and Texas as well.
One of the trainers said the atmosphere in immigrant communities is “fearful” because people “don’t know what is going to happen the next day.” Changes in immigration enforcement tactics in recent days have many immigrants (including those here legally) curtailing social outings, and being more careful about being around strangers.
Another bit of advice from trainers: do not give law enforcement officials false or forged ID documents. To do so can be a crime, which could mean you will be in even bigger trouble with immigration agents.
If you or a loved one faces detention or deportation, you can speak with an experienced Louisville immigration law attorney.
