(This post is part of a series where we are discussing the experiences of undocumented folks and their families navigating this difficult period in order to raise awareness and increase support for those affected. If you have resources to share, please comment below. If you work at a school or organization, and are interested in hosting a talk, see the range of presentations we provide here.)

As rumors of immigration raids continue to circulate across the country, families often feel compelled to shelter in place and limit their time outdoors to minimize risk. Many also hesitate to seek resources out of fear of encountering immigration officers, having their data being shared with immigration authorities, or being reported. Young adults face tremendous pressure to support their loved ones financially, emotionally, and materially. In response to reports of raids in the neighborhood, for example, young adults may volunteer to drive their parents or run errands. They often check in with loved ones to ensure they arrive at work safely. Some may feel compelled to work longer hours or take on additional jobs so their undocumented parents do not have to risk working. Young adults may also provide emotional support to their younger siblings or parents. As families face heightened fears, limited resources, and greater responsibilities, fellow community members can offer support in many ways. In last week’s post, we discussed the consequences of heightened immigration enforcement on families. This includes insight into how enforcement impacts family members’ daily routines, well-being, and responsibilities within the household. In this post, we feature ten practical steps allies can take to support families.

Note: It is important to follow a family’s lead. Rather than making assumptions about the help they need, you can start by asking what kind of support they would find helpful, offer a few suggestions, and, more broadly, simply be present to show your support. Thus, this list is not meant to be a one-size-fits-all or definitive guide, but rather is intended to help you brainstorm and consider possible ways to offer support.

1. Volunteer to help with rides or run errands. As families try to minimize their time outdoors in the coming days/weeks amid growing enforcement, it can be helpful to offer to help with rides or run errands. This includes, for example, dropping off groceries or meals.

2. Contribute to immigrant rights organizations. There are dozens of organizations providing direct services and support to immigrant families across the country. Connect with local organizations and inquire about ways to support. It may be that they need volunteers at an upcoming event, help spreading the word about their resources, or donations.

3. Cautiously share news about arrests, raids, and sightings of immigration officers. It can be overwhelming for young adults and their families to constantly see news about immigration enforcement. It can also be an all-consuming task to attempt to verify whether such news are true or false. To help ease some of this emotional burden, it can be helpful to stay up-to-date with trusted organizations such as those that oversee rapid response networks to help spread the word about verified enforcement activities in the neighborhood.

4. Compile and share a list of helpful local resources. This can include information on family emergency preparedness plans, scholarship opportunities, DACA renewal workshops, rapid response networks, and know your rights presentations.

5. If you know someone whose loved one has been arrested or deported, it may be helpful to help them and their family with groceries, meals, or donations. Again, it is important to check in with the family first (or a mutual friend) to see what kind of help they need and welcome.

6. Actively listen to their concerns, worries, and hopes. This can go a long way in providing the kind of emotional support and sense of community that are crucial during challenging times.

7. Continue to learn about the experiences of undocumented immigrants and their families. This can help raise awareness about the issue and build networks of support.

8. Stay up to date with changes in U.S. immigration policy and enforcement. Relatedly, it is important to stay informed about ongoing changes in policy and practice so that you can help address folks’ concerns, questions, or refer them to the appropriate resource.

FOUR ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS IF YOU WORK AT A SCHOOL 

• Partner with on-campus offices or local organizations to expand access to resources such as emergency grants, grocery vouchers, meal plans, or lyft/uber passes.
• Organize a basic needs and/or rapid response task force on campus to provide prompt and comprehensive support to students affected by a parent’s arrest or deportation.
• Expand access to mental health and legal services for students and their families.
• Host events related to Know Your Rights, family emergency preparedness, updates on U.S. immigration policy, and more.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

“How Immigration Enforcement Impacts Families” (My Undocumented Life) — “In recent days, there has been a significant increase in enforcement activities across the country. In California, concerning news of raids in or near churches, car washes, Home Depot, and farms have surfaced. As a result, families are contending with acute levels of fear and stress. This can prevent families from safely seeking resources and support when in need, including medical services. It can also disrupt their daily routines, commutes, and ability to rest.”

“List of Rapid Response Networks Across the Country” (My Undocumented Life) — “In light of troubling reports about immigration enforcement activities across the country, it is important to know your rights and be aware of available resources. One key resource is what’s commonly known as “rapid response networks.” These networks typically verify immigration enforcement activities in their local communities and share information about confirmed incidents. In this post, you’ll find information about trustworthy rapid response networks across the country.”

“How Faculty and Staff Can Support Undocumented & DACAmented Students Amid Growing Fear and Worry” (My Undocumented Life) — “As faculty and staff members in higher education who directly interact with students, there are several steps you can take to support immigrant college students and their families during these challenging times.” This post features ten detailed recommendations.

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At My Undocumented Life we provide up-to-date information and resources for undocumented immigrants and allies. We post scholarship opportunities that are open to undocumented students, strategies for navigating the educational system, information on how to apply for DACA/Advance Parole, news on DAPA, and much more. Most importantly, we want to provide a sense of community to our diverse group of readers. Learn more about our work here: “About Us“

Categories: Everyday Life While Undocumented, Get involved, Recommendations

Tags: enforcement, Immigration, undocumented