Immigrant Protection Handbook

This handbook is a guide to the essential support needed for anyone at risk of detention or deportation. Download Handbook

Also available in Español and Tagalog.

    • ILRC Red Cards (written in 16 languages): These wallet-sized cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, like when ICE agents go to a home.

    • ILRC Know Your Rights Toolkit: Materials to educate and prepare individuals for possible encounters with immigration authorities.

    • Watch "We Have Rights" videos (available in multiple languages) to safely prepare and defend your rights during encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

    • ACLU and Community Know Your Rights “KYR” Training: Attend these to stay informed and prepared.

  • Follow these steps to create a plan to protect yourself and your family.

    Designate an Emergency Contact

    • Choose a trusted person (family member, friend, or legal advocate). If possible, have two trusted persons incase one is unavailable.

    • Create an Emergency Contact Plan for Immigration Detention to give to your trusted person(s).

    • Give them written authorization to access your information and help you legally.

    • Memorize Key Phone Numbers: In case you lose access to your phone, memorize the numbers of trusted contacts.

    Prepare a Legal Plan

    • Identify an Immigration Lawyer

    • Power of Attorney (POA): Authorize someone to make legal and custody decisions if needed. Consulting a lawyer is recommended.

      • Durable (Statutory) POA – Allows a trusted person to handle finances if you’re detained or unavailable.

      • Parental POA (Minor Children) – Allows a trusted adult to care for your children in your absence and ensures they can act in your place when needed for your child’s medical care, education, and day-to-day needs. By preparing this document, you are not only protecting your child but also making things easier for their temporary caregiver. It’s a small step that can prevent major complications. (see more details in “Family Plan” section, below)

    Organize Important Documents

    • Create an Emergency Folder: Include IDs, birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, and financial documents. 

    • Keep originals and copies of your documents in a safe place.

    • Provide copies to a trusted person(s).

    • Digitize key documents on a USB drive or cloud storage.

    • Keep a card in your wallet with your lawyer’s and emergency contacts' information in English.

    Plan for Your Medical Needs

    • Keep at least a one-month supply of medications.

    • Create a Medical Information Form to list your medications, pharmacy information, refill instructions, and any medical conditions or allergies.

    • Advance Health Care Directive: Authorize someone to make medical decisions if you can’t.

    Connect with Support Networks

    Prepare a Family Plan

    • Inform your child’s school about who is authorized to pick them up.

    • Keep an emergency contact list easily accessible.

    • Practice Emergency Drills: Have a plan in place and discuss with family members what to do in case of detention.

    • Designate a trusted guardian for your children and give them Parental Power of Attorney (POA - Minor Children).  This is important because it:

      • Ensures Your Child’s Well-Being – The designated caregiver will have the legal authority to make necessary decisions regarding your child’s medical care, education, and daily needs.

      • Allows Action in Medical Emergencies – If your child needs medical attention, a power of attorney allows the caregiver to seek treatment without delays due to legal restrictions. Many hospitals require formal documentation to approve decisions made by an adult who is not the parent.

      • Facilitates Education and School Needs – Schools may require parental authorization for enrollment, field trips, or disciplinary measures. This document allows the caregiver to sign necessary forms.

      • Provides Legal Protection – Without legal authorization, a caregiver may not have the ability to act in urgent situations. A power of attorney ensures they can make decisions on your behalf when needed.

      • Is Easy to Set Up and Revoke – This is a simple legal document that can be tailored to a specific period and revoked at any time. It’s a practical way to ensure your child is in good hands while you’re away.

    • Alliance San Diego

      • Services: Immigration legal support, advocacy, and Know Your Rights training.

      • Phone: (619) 269-1823

      • Website: alliancesd.org

    • Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego

      • Services: Low-cost legal aid for green card renewals, DACA, work permits, & citizenship applications.

      • Phone: (619) 287-1270

      • Website: ccdsd.org

    • Higher Education Legal Services (HELS)

      • Services: Free immigration legal assistance for students and faculty at San Diego & Imperial Valley colleges.

      • Phone: (858) 536-7213

      • Website: sdmiramar.edu

    • San Diego Immigrant Rights Consortium: 

      • Services: Offers free and low-cost legal assistance.

      • Phone: (619) 363-3423

      • Website: immigrantsandiego.org

    • Immigrant Legal Resource Center: 

      • Services: Legal guides and attorney referrals.

      • Phone: (415) 255-9499

      • Website: ilrc.org

    For more immigration legal support information, including a list of Immigration Attorneys offering pro bono (free) services, go to: https://womensmarchsd.org/immigration-rights-legal-support

  • In addition to engaging in stress management practices such as meditation, exercise, and community activities, the following services and support groups are available:

    Free or Low-Cost Therapy & Counseling Services for Immigrants 

    Local & Online Immigration Support Groups

Find the whereabouts of people who have been detained: Online Detainee Locator System