RESOURCES FOR CULTURAL VENUES TO PROTECT OUR NEIGHBORS
MASSCreative was founded to provide artists, creatives, cultural organizations, and all members of Massachusetts’ creative sector with the information and tools they need to achieve a more inclusive, accessible, and equitable creative sector for all residents of the Commonwealth. We believe that everyone has a right to participate in the cultural sector. We also believe that cultural organizations and creative businesses are trusted resources within their towns and cities, and that many are asking themselves how they can be good neighbors and community members.
This is a suggested guide for what to do if an ICE agent or law enforcement officer comes to your studio, nonprofit, creative maker space, or small business. The sole purpose of this guide is to keep you, your employees, patrons, and your neighbors safe and informed. This guide is modeled to reflect the resources shared by the ACLU and Congressional elected officials.
Please be aware that this resource is not legal advice: we encourage organizations and businesses to consult their own legal counsel for advice that is specific to their circumstances.
This is not an exhaustive list. If you are aware of other available resources, we encourage you to share them with us. Thank you to our partners at Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts for contributing to this list.
START BY KNOWING YOUR RIGHTS
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You have the right NOT to open the door to your private property (home, creative space, small business, etc.)
If they ask to enter your private property, you have the right to ask to see a warrant signed by a judge. If they only have an administrative (ICE) warrant, you have the right under the 4th amendment to decline and ask them to leave your property.
An ICE warrant will not have a judge's signature or the word “Court” at the top.
You have the right to remain silent, and under no circumstances are you required to communicate with them. If you would like to engage in conversation, you have the right to inquire (through a closed door or window) for an interpreter. You have the right to ask for a LAWYER.
You have the right to record interactions with an agent. Be sure to keep your hands visible and ensure that others around you do the same. If you are reaching for anything, communicate with the agent what you are doing.
You have the right to deny that you and your private property be searched. You do not have to sign anything or hand over documents.
ICE is legally allowed to mislead you and provide you with false information. So remember to exercise your rights.
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The burden of this section is mainly on the individual. As a creative business owner or leader at a cultural organization, you may consider sharing these points with your staff or patrons.
If you have your proof of legal status, carry it with you at all times.
Do not present or provide false documents.
Do not run, argue, resist, or obstruct agents.
Ensure your hands are visible to agents.
Exercise your right to be silent, and do not provide them with false information. Remember, anything you say can be used against you.
Memorize at least one emergency contact number.
Learn who your elected representatives are and consider keeping a signed DHS privacy waiver in a safe place so they can advocate on your behalf.
There are organizations that are working at the local, state, and national levels to provide Know Your Rights trainings and additional resources to help your organization prepare for a potential encounter. Please reference the list of organizations below for additional resources and learning.
ORGANIZATIONS THAT CAN PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE:
National Immigrant Justice Center
Includes resources for organizations preparing and protecting from potential ICE raids, such as creating safety plans, understanding your rights, and familiarizing yourself with administrative and judicial warrants.
RESOURCES IN MASSACHUSETTS:
Beyond Bond & Legal Defense Fund
The Beyond Bond & Legal Defense Fund (the Bond Fund) raises money for immigration bonds to free people in ICE prisons in Massachusetts and Rhode Island or those detained elsewhere who are from or returning to Massachusetts.
Children’s Law Center of Massachusetts
Provides comprehensive litigation services, training, technical assistance and broader policy work. Reach out to them if you need representation regarding education, immigration, family integrity, youth justice, and more.
Greater Boston Legal Services attorneys and paralegals provide critical legal advice and representation to low-income individuals. They can help with issues including immigration, education, bankruptcy, healthcare, housing, and more.
Provides legal aid for immigration, police accountability, fair housing, and more.
LUCE Immigrant Justice Network of Massachusetts
Organizes a defense hotline and advocacy
Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office:
Know Your Rights: ICE Enforcement: A Guide for Immigrants, Families, and Communities
Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA)
MIRA’s work spans policy analysis, legislative and administrative advocacy, organizing, training, education, and strategic communications. They hold frequent Know Your Rights trainings.
MASSCreative’s tool to locate your Congressional representative
Rian empowers immigrants, refugees and international exchange visitors on the path to opportunity, safety, and a better future. They provide many services including Immigration Legal Services, Resource and Support Services, International Exchange Visitor Visa Services, Advocacy for just and humane immigration policies, and Community Building Opportunities.
Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (Massachusetts)
Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA) helps artists, cultural organizations, and creative entrepreneurs through a lawyer referral program, direct representation, and educational programs.
NATIONAL RESOURCES:
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)’s Protesters’ Rights
FAQ: How Employers can Prepare for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Audits and Raids
Guide: Are You Ready If Immigration Enforcement Shows Up at Your Venue?
Human Rights First’s ReadyNow! Free and secure app to help users to create personalized emergency plans
Immigrant Family Services Institute
Pen America’s Online Harassment Field Manual
Tamizdat facilitates and advocates for international cultural mobility and exchange.
Volunteer Lawyers & Accountants for the Arts’ National Directory
