During his first term, the Trump administration enforced strict immigration measures, resulting in increased deportations and limited pathways to citizenship. While the specifics of immigration policies for his second term remain unclear, immigrants need to be proactive and prepared for potential changes.

Staying Calm and Informed

With the inauguration scheduled for January 20, 2025, there is still time to prepare. Major policy changes often take time to implement, so remaining calm and informed during this transitional period is crucial. Here are some key steps to protect your status and readiness for any shifts in immigration policy.

Know Your Rights

Understanding your legal rights is vital for safeguarding yourself:

- Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions about your immigration status.

- Right to Refuse Entry: Immigration officers can only enter your home with a signed warrant from a judge. Always ask to see the warrant before allowing entry.

- Right to an Attorney: If detained, you have the right to legal representation. You can request a lawyer, even if you cannot afford one.

Stay Informed About Policy Changes

It is important to stay updated on immigration policy changes, as they can occur rapidly. Here are some steps to keep informed:

- Follow Trusted Sources: Organizations such as the ACLU, National Immigration Law Center, and United We Dream provide reliable updates on immigration policies.

- Monitor Deportation Policies: Pay attention to announcements regarding deportation priorities, which have historically focused on individuals with criminal convictions or recent border crossers.

- Watch for Executive Orders: Stay alert for new executive orders that could impact your immigration status, particularly those related to border security, asylum seekers, and public charge rules.

Consult an Immigration Attorney or Legal Aid Organization

Consulting an immigration attorney is crucial if you have questions about your immigration status or potential legal challenges. A qualified attorney can help you understand your options and navigate the complexities of the immigration system.

- Explore Your Options: You may qualify for various forms of legal relief, such as family-based petitions or asylum.

- Stay Ahead of Legal Challenges: For individuals with temporary statuses like DACA or TPS, legal counsel can help identify pathways to protection against deportation.

Organize Important Documents

Keeping immigration-related documents organized is essential:

- Keep Copies: Ensure you have copies of your passport, visa, work permits, and any paperwork related to your immigration status.

- Document Residency: If you have lived in the United States for an extended period, maintain proof of your continuous residence, such as utility bills and tax returns.

- Secure Your Documents: Store important documents in a safe place, like a fireproof folder or secure cloud storage, and inform a trusted person of their location.

Create an Emergency Plan

Having an emergency plan is crucial if you or a loved one is detained:

- Designate Emergency Contacts: Choose someone who can act quickly on your behalf if detained, ensuring they have your important information.

- Plan for Childcare or Guardianship: Designate a trusted individual to care for your children if you are detained or deported, ensuring they have the necessary documentation.

- Prepare for Detention: Carry a card with your attorney's contact information or that of a local immigrant rights organization.

Be Cautious of Fraudulent Immigration Services

During uncertain times, scams targeting immigrants can increase:

- Never Pay for Guarantees: Be cautious of anyone promising quick fixes or guaranteed legal status.

- Work with Accredited Professionals: Ensure that you are working with licensed attorneys or accredited representatives recognized by the Department of Justice.

Prepare for Worst-Case Scenarios

While hoping for the best, it's wise to prepare for the worst:

- Understand the Deportation Process: Familiarize yourself with what deportation proceedings entail and what relief options may be available.

- Seek Relief: If you find yourself in removal proceedings, explore legal avenues such as adjustment of status or asylum.

How You Can Support Immigrants

Community members looking to support immigrants can take several steps to assist their immigrant neighbors during these uncertain times:

1. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about immigration policies and share helpful resources with your immigrant friends and neighbors.
2. Advocate for Immigrants' Rights: Get involved with local advocacy groups that work to protect immigrant rights and promote immigrant-friendly policies.
3. Offer Practical Support: Assist with organizing documents, finding legal resources, or creating emergency plans for families in your community.
4. Volunteer: Donate your time to local organizations that provide legal aid, support services, or educational resources for immigrants.

Though uncertainty looms following the recent election, proactive steps can help ensure safety and well-being. By knowing your rights, consulting with an attorney, organizing important documents, and staying connected with the community, you can navigate this challenging time more effectively.

If you need legal aid, make an appointment with these organizations:

Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants 

The program staff consists of attorneys and DOJ-accredited legal representatives. 

- Bridgeport Office: 670 Clinton Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06605 | 203-336-0141 

- Stamford Office: 34 Woodland Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902 | 203-965-7190 

IRIS - Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services 

Services include adjustment of status, consular processing, family-based petitions, and naturalization/citizenship. 

- Location: 235 Nicoll St, 2nd Floor, New Haven, CT 06511 | (203) 562-2769 | irisct.org (http://www.irisct.org) 

Assistance with Community Resources, Guidance in Creating Emergency Plans, and Citizenship Applications: 

The New American Dream Center

An in-person resource center that guides and supports immigrants. Call to make an appointment at the 24/7 hotline (475) 296-3559. 

Sources: National Immigrant Justice Center - "Know Your Rights: Prepare for Mass Deportation Threats" and National Immigration Law Center.