DENVER — Groups that assist illegal immigrants report receiving many calls from people seeking help.
Many people are worried that immigration workers will come to their homes, jobs, and neighborhoods.
The videos from across the country of federal agents raiding places and detaining undocumented immigrants have caused a wave of fear among non-citizens in Colorado. This is why the Colorado Rapid Response Network is receiving many calls and questions about possible ICE raids.
“Since the inauguration, the hotline has been ringing non-stop,” said Raquel Lane Arellano, a dispatcher for the Colorado Rapid Response Network.
People are saying there might be ICE actions happening, but most of these reports haven’t been proven. Volunteers want to help people in the country without permission understand what steps to take.
“ICE may come with a fake warrant, but you don’t have to let them in.” Lane-Arellano said you need to ensure it’s an official warrant and not one from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Immigration attorneys like Hans Meyer say the number of calls to his office has also grown exponentially.
“We help educate people in the community about their rights during encounters with police and ICE. We also guide families on how to stay safe and prepare a backup plan in case a loved one is detained by immigration,” Meyer said.
Meyer said that even if someone is not officially recorded, they still have rights.
People often misunderstand that when someone is arrested, they may have limited choices. That’s incorrect. Often, in immigration court, a non-citizen can ask the court for permission to stay in the country or to gain legal status, according to Meyer.
The Rapid Response Network wants undocumented immigrants to understand this type of knowledge clearly.
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