07/13/2019
GA Lutheran Church NYC will provide sanctuary this weekend.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are expected to round up thousands of undocumented immigrants for deportation starting, July 14, 2019. The nationwide raids are expected to take place in at least 10 major cities, including New York City. ICE agents are targeting at least 2,000 immigrants who either missed their court dates or ignored deportation orders. Many of these immigrants were given notice to report to an ICE office and leave the U.S. in February.
This action by our government is the worst of fear-mongering and white supremacy. Beloved, productive and irreplaceable images of God, including many from our own neighborhood and church community, once again have to fear that they will have their families torn apart, perhaps forever, which causes devastating harm to them and the communities of which they are a part. It is an unconscionable use of fear to continue to divide our nation for political purposes.
Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church condemns these raids and the actions of President Trump who authorized them. Any individuals or families who are targeted by ICE for deportation will be provided sanctuary. If you or people in your circle of friends have a notice or are living in fear this weekend, please contact, Pastor Chris Mietlowski, 646-341-1226, and our church will provide sanctuary within our church buildings.
Here are a few guidelines provided by the American Civil Liberties Union:
I’ve been stopped by police or ICE How to reduce risk to yourself
• Stay calm and do not resist or obstruct the agents or officers.
• Do not lie or give false documents.
• Prepare yourself and your family in case you are arrested. Memorize the phone numbers of your family and your lawyer. Make emergency plans if you have children or take medication.
Your rights
• You have the right to remain silent. If you wish to exercise that right, say so out loud. (In some states, you may be required to provide your name if asked to identify yourself.)
• You do not have to consent to a search of yourself or your belongings, but police may pat down your clothing if they suspect a weapon.
• If you are arrested by police, you have the right to a government-appointed lawyer.
• If you are detained by ICE, you have the right to consult with a lawyer, but the government is not required to provide one for you. You can ask for a list of free or low-cost alternatives.
• You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, whether you are a U.S. citizen, or how you entered the country. (Separate rules apply at international borders and airports, and for individuals on certain nonimmigrant visas, including tourists and business travelers.)
What to do if you are arrested or detained
• Say you wish to remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Don’t give any explanations or excuses. Don’t say anything, sign anything, or make any decisions without a lawyer.
• If you have been arrested by police, you have the right to make a local phone call. The police cannot listen if you call a lawyer.
• If you have been detained by ICE, you have the right to contact your consulate or have an officer inform the consulate of your detention.
• Remember your immigration number (“A” number) and give it to your family. It will help family members locate you.
• Keep a copy of your immigration documents with someone you trust.
If you are a non-citizen: Ask your lawyer about the effect of a criminal conviction or plea on your immigration status. Don’t discuss your immigration status with anyone but your lawyer. While you are in jail, an immigration agent may visit you. Do not answer questions or sign anything before talking to a lawyer. Read all papers fully. If you do not understand or cannot read the papers, tell the officer you need an interpreter.
More information can be found at:
Regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the Constitution. Learn more here about your rights as an immigrant, and how to express them.
