Know Your Rights Training was presented on Feb. 22, at 6 p.m. by Keweenaw Against the Oligarchy, Michigan United Action, The Keweenaw Mutual Aid Collective, Keweenaw Indivisible, Graduate Student Government, and the Keweenaw Socialists. The presentation introduced the hosts’ organizations, explained the role of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), outlined how to prepare for ICE’s potential presence in Houghton, and reviewed individuals’ rights before and after arrest or detention. Organizers emphasized throughout that they are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. The presentation can be found at bit.ly/kyr_mtu.
Presenters began by discussing ICE’s role and enforcement practices. They stated that ICE is not about immigration enforcement and is acting “unlawfully and unconstitutionally.” According to the presenters, almost two-thirds of all detained persons have no criminal history, many of which are children. Almost 200 U.S. citizens have been arrested by ICE, and more than five have been killed. Additionally, ICE has many documented unlawful actions, such as promising immunity to their agents and entering private property without warrants.
Some critics have accused the organizers of fearmongering and the organizers say that characterization is inaccurate. According to their representatives, their goal is not to alarm the community, but to ensure residents understand their legal rights and options. The training is intended to promote awareness and informed decision-making.
The presenters encouraged both immigrants and U.S. citizens who may be targeted due to racial profiling to take proactive steps, such as avoiding unnecessary interactions, knowing your rights, and developing an emergency plan. An emergency plan may include: keeping important documents in an easily accessible place, making copies of important information, applying for a passport, consulting with an immigration lawyer, and identifying a trusted person who could post bond if necessary. While anyone can post bond for someone, a U.S. citizen is recommended to do so.
ICE may enter private property in two ways: with a valid search or arrest warrant or with your consent. Residents have the right not to open the door. If officers claim to have a warrant, you may ask them to slide it under the door or hold it up to a window. An enforceable legally binding warrant must be signed by a judge, not an immigration officer or ICE agent, and be addressed to a specific person or address. You also have the right to remain silent.
On campus or in public, you may ask “Am I being arrested” or “Am I free to go?” If you are free to go, you may calmly leave. Though laws vary by state, Michigan does not have a general “stop and identify” statute requiring individuals to show identification. If searched, do not resist. Clearly state “I do not consent to this search.” If you have valid U.S. or local identification documents, you may present them. Presenters noted Michigan Senate Bill 501 allows certain foreign driver’s licenses to be recognized without requiring proof of residence through an International Driving Permit, depending on treaty agreements. Michigan Tech has “refused to identify” private locations on campus. This includes any spaces that are kept generally closed to the public. If you are in one of these spaces, you are not required to open the doors and may request a warrant.
If detained or arrested, you have the right to: remain silent, make a phone call, and request an attorney. The presenters recommended not discussing your immigration information with anyone other than your attorney or accredited representative, and suggested not signing any documents before speaking with legal counsel. You may request copies of all documents in your case, including your Notice to Appear. You may also request bond or a bond redetermination hearing and a hearing before an immigration judge.
Sometimes detainees are unable to make a phone call without funds in their account. To deposit funds, obtain the person’s detention ID number, which can be found through ICE’s online detainee locator at locator.ice.gov/odls. If a person does not appear in the system within 24 hours, contacting an attorney is recommended.
Public Safety and local law enforcement have expressed their support for the broader community. Organizers said officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining safety and upholding local policies.
During the question-and-answer portion of the presentation, one participant explained that Ring, the doorbell camera company owned by Amazon, has partnered with law enforcement agencies to share user-recorded footage. Presenters encouraged residents to be mindful of their surroundings and aware that video doorbell systems may capture and potentially share footage, depending on company policies and user agreements.
For support with police misconduct, you can call the Immigrant Police Misconduct Hotline at 313-208-7048.
