As immigration enforcement activity continues to cause fear and confusion in communities across California, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA)—the state’s largest immigrant rights organization—is working to empower immigrants and workers with critical legal knowledge.
Last week, the nonprofit posted a video to its Instagram account (@chirla_org) with practical legal guidance for individuals who may encounter U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at workplaces or public spaces.
“First of all, do not run. Immigration is arresting even U.S. citizens just for running,” said Attorney Trujillo, CHIRLA’s Director of Labor Legal Services, in the video.
What To Do If You See ICE
Attorney Trujillo advises individuals to remain calm, never flee, and assert their rights immediately and clearly. The video outlines five key phrases everyone should remember during an encounter with immigration agents:
- “Why are you stopping me?”
This question challenges racial profiling and prompts officers to justify their stop. - “Am I free to leave?”
If the answer is yes, individuals should leave calmly and immediately. - “I will remain silent under the Fifth Amendment.”
This right can be repeated as necessary and helps avoid self-incrimination. - “I do not consent to any search.”
Whether it’s a search of a vehicle, bag, phone, or locker, refusing consent is a key constitutional protection. - “I will not answer any questions without a lawyer.”
This ensures legal counsel is present before any interrogation proceeds.
Trujillo explained that in most cases, if rights are properly asserted, individuals should not be arrested. If they are, the arrest may be unconstitutional, giving rise to potential legal challenges under Fourth and Fifth Amendment protections.
CHIRLA’s Emergency Hotline and Ongoing Support
In their caption accompanying the video, CHIRLA reminded community members:
“If you see ICE in your neighborhood or need additional support, call us at 1-888-624-4725.”
The organization’s Immigrant Assistance Hotline offers multilingual support and referrals for legal counsel, deportation defense, and workplace rights.
Protecting Workers and Employers
The final part of the video encourages employers to learn their legal obligations if ICE attempts to enter non-public areas of a business.
According to Trujillo, employers are not required to grant access to agents without a judicial warrant and should be aware of their legal limits and employee protections under state and federal law.
CHIRLA’s ongoing social media campaigns are part of a broader Know Your Rights initiative aimed at preventing unlawful arrests, protecting undocumented workers, and holding government agencies accountable for discriminatory enforcement practices.
