Deportation Info and Resources

The help and resources you need to keep up to date with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE). On this page you will find helpful information and resources about deportation, your rights, and what to do if I.C.E. were too stop you.

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Sanctuary Cities: Policies, Impact on Immigrants
and Protection Strategies

What Are Sanctuary Cities?

Sanctuary cities are jurisdictions (such as cities, counties, or states) that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, like ICE. This means local law enforcement generally does not actively assist ICE in detaining or deporting undocumented immigrants unless required by law. Sanctuary policies may include not holding individuals for ICE beyond their release date, not honoring ICE detainers, or limiting ICE access to local databases.
These policies aim to build trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement, encouraging individuals to report crimes, seek help, and access services without fear of deportation. However, sanctuary cities do not provide immunity from federal immigration laws—they simply limit the involvement of local agencies in immigration enforcement.

Key Policies of Sanctuary Cities

1.Non-Cooperation with ICE: Local police do not inquire about immigration status or detain individuals for ICE unless there is a criminal warrant.

2.No ICE Detainer Compliance: Sanctuary cities refuse to honor ICE detainer requests, which ask local police to hold undocumented immigrants beyond their release time.

3.Access to Public Services: Undocumented immigrants can access essential services like schools, healthcare, shelters, and legal aid without fear of immigration enforcement.

4.Community Trust Policies: Local law enforcement prioritizes public safety over immigration status, encouraging undocumented individuals to report crimes and cooperate with authorities without fear of deportation.

Major Sanctuary Cities

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Major Sanctuary States

Pros & Cons

Pros

Less Fear of Deportation – Immigrants are less likely to be reported to ICE by local police.
Access to Public Services – More protections in healthcare, education, and housing.
Improved Community Safety – Encourages immigrants to report crimes and cooperate with police.

Cons

Less Fear of Deportation – Immigrants are less likely to be reported to ICE by local police.
Access to Public Services – More protections in healthcare, education, and housing.
Improved Community Safety – Encourages immigrants to report crimes and cooperate with police.

How Immigrants Can Protect Themselves in Sanctuary Cities

Know your Rights – You’re not required to answer immigration questions, open your door to ICE without a warrant, or sign any documents without understanding them.

Stay Informed and Connected
Follow local sanctuary city policies and connect with trusted immigrant advocacy groups for legal help.

Avoid Risky Situations
Steer clear of high-risk areas and locations where ICE activity has been reported; ICE generally avoids schools, churches, and hospitals

Get Local Support
Obtain a local or municipal ID if possible to access services without disclosing immigration status.

Sanctuary policies provide some protection, but they do not make a city completely safe from ICE enforcement. Immigrants should always be aware of their rights and have an emergency plan in place.

Know Your Rights

What are my basic rights during immigration enforcement?

Right to remain silent – You do not have to answer questions or make statements.
Right to refuse unlawful searches – Authorities need a warrant or probable cause to search you or your property.
Right to legal representation – You can ask for a lawyer if you are detained.
Right not to open the door without a warrant – ICE must present a valid warrant to enter your home.