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Know Your Rights: How to Use the Red Card in Case of Interaction with ICE

January 31, 2025

In times of uncertainty, knowing our rights is crucial. If you or someone you know encounters an interaction with immigration officers (ICE), the Red Card is an essential tool to protect your constitutional rights and ensure your safety.

What is the Red Card?

The Red Card is a legal resource designed to help individuals exercise their constitutional rights when interacting with immigration officers. These cards are available to both citizens and non-citizens and provide a clear statement to be used in the event of an ICE raid or visit.

How to Use the Red Card?

If an immigration officer shows up at your home, follow these steps and use the Red Card to protect yourself:

  • Do not open the door if an immigration officer is knocking. Without a signed court order with your name, ICE cannot enter.
  • Do not answer questions about your immigration status. You have the constitutional right to remain silent.
  • Do not sign any documents without first speaking to a lawyer. Do not be pressured into signing anything without legal advice.
  • If you are outside your home, ask if you are free to leave. If the officer says yes, leave calmly.
  • Hand the Red Card to the officer. If you are inside your home, show it through the window or slide it under the door.

What Does the Red Card Say?

The card’s text informs immigration officers that:

  • You do not wish to speak, answer questions, or sign documents based on your Fifth Amendment right.
  • You do not grant permission for them to enter your home without a signed order from a judge or magistrate.
  • You do not allow them to search your belongings without your consent.
  • You have decided to exercise your constitutional rights.

Download the Red Card

This resource is free and accessible to all. You can download your own Red Card at the following link:
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The Importance of Knowing Your Rights

The Red Card not only helps protect you in difficult situations, but it also empowers communities to act with knowledge and safety. Share this resource with your family and friends so that more people know how to act in the event of an ICE interaction.

Download your Red Card today and stay informed!