Whether you’re newly arrived or have been in the country for years, being an immigrant can come with fear, confusion, and uncertainty. But you are not powerless. You have the right to protect yourself, your family, and your future.
Here are essential steps every immigrant should take to stay safe and strong—legally, emotionally, and spiritually.
✅ 1. Know Your Rights
Even if you are undocumented, you still have rights under the U.S. Constitution.
- You have the right to remain silent if approached by ICE or police.
- You have the right to refuse entry to your home without a warrant signed by a judge.
- You have the right to call a lawyer before speaking to authorities.
💡 Keep a card in your wallet that says: “I wish to remain silent. I want to speak to a lawyer.”
✅ 2. Keep Important Documents Safe and Accessible
Gather and protect key documents such as:
- Birth certificates, passports, ID cards
- Immigration paperwork (even if pending or expired)
- Medical records, school documents, and family emergency contacts
Make copies and keep them in a safe place. You can also save digital versions securely on the cloud or an encrypted drive.
✅ 3. Have a Safety Plan for Your Family
Talk with trusted loved ones about:
- Who will care for your children if something happens
- Who can access your documents
- Emergency numbers to call if detained or in trouble
Fill out a family preparedness plan, including a power of attorney if needed. Churches and nonprofits often provide free templates.
✅ 4. Stay Informed and Connected
Ignorance can put you at risk.
- Stay connected with local immigrant support groups, legal aid clinics, or trusted churches.
- Follow reliable immigration news, not rumors or social media gossip.
- Attend free “Know Your Rights” sessions offered by community organizations.
When you know what’s true, you won’t fall for scams or false promises.
✅ 5. Avoid Scams and “Notarios”
Beware of people who promise immigration help for a fee without a legal license.
- Only licensed immigration attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives can give legal advice.
- Do not sign blank documents or forms you don’t understand.
- Always ask for receipts and written contracts.
If someone scams you, report them—it will not affect your immigration case.
✅ 6. Seek Legal Help Early
Don’t wait for a crisis.
- If you’re eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), asylum, a work permit, or adjustment of status, apply as early as possible.
- If you’re undocumented, speak with a legal aid group or immigration attorney to learn your options.
- Keep copies of all applications and track every deadline.
🕊️ A small step today can protect your future tomorrow.
✅ 7. Lean on Faith and Community
You are not alone.
Connect with Haitian churches, community centers, and support networks that can walk with you in prayer, resources, and strength. Remember, God is with the immigrant.
“The Lord watches over the foreigner; He sustains the fatherless and the widow…” — Psalm 146:9
✨ Final Word: You Deserve Protection
You are not illegal. You are a human being created by God, and you deserve to live with dignity, peace, and protection.
Take these steps seriously—and help others do the same. Because when we protect ourselves, we protect our families, our communities, and our future.