As Federal Immigration Enforcement Rises, Newsom Urges Californians to Know Their Rights and Make a Family Plan
Governor Gavin Newsom on October 9 urged Californians to stay calm, stay safe and know their constitutional rights as reports of increased federal immigration enforcement grow, and to make a plan to protect themselves and their families.
The Governor's Office advised families to prepare before an emergency: identify emergency contacts, arrange care for children or other dependents, keep important documents and phone numbers in a safe place, and share an immigration “A” number with family members so they can help locate a detained relative. People who witness federal enforcement activity were urged not to run, to keep a safe distance, and to observe or document peacefully where the law allows, without threatening, obstructing or interfering with officers.
The guidance also says detained people may ask to speak with an attorney and should not sign documents they do not understand without legal counsel. Californians were urged to seek help only from qualified immigration attorneys or accredited legal-service providers and to beware of anyone promising guaranteed results or charging for unauthorized legal services. Reports of possible misconduct by federal agents can be submitted to the California Attorney General at oag.ca.gov/reportmisconduct; anyone in immediate danger should call 911.
For Chinese immigrant families in California, the practical steps are simple: keep an attorney's number, family contacts and copies of key documents ready, stay calm during any enforcement encounter, assert legal rights, and do not sign papers that are not understood.
(Source: California Governor's Office)
Source: California Governor's Office
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：美国移民与海关执法局（ICE）执法人员押送被拘留者（资料图）。美国移民与海关执法局官方照片，公有领域，来源：Wikimedia Commons
