Immigrant families are an essential part of our community here in Palatine Township - as neighbors, coworkers, business owners, and friends. Our country has long been strengthened by generations of immigrants who came here seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future.
Recently, we have witnessed members of our community treated cruelly and without dignity - targeted because of their language, culture, or the color of their skin. At the same time, we have also seen neighbors step forward in solidarity, gathering at rallies and protests to say clearly and publicly: this is not who we are, and this is not okay.
The information and resources below are meant to offer meaningful ways to support our immigrant neighbors with compassion, care, and courage - and to help ensure our shared values are visible, protected, and heard.
How To Get Involved
Attend The Weekly Local Pro-Immigration Rally
Join your neighbors each week (or when you can) to show support for immigrant communities in Palatine Township. Gather at the corner of Dundee Rd and Baldwin Rd in Palatine at 4 PM on most Fridays — bring a sign, dress warmly, and show your caring and respect. These peaceful rallies are a visible and meaningful way to stand up for inclusion and human rights, and honks from passing cars remind us that our community truly cares. Afterward, consider visiting one of the many local restaurants to support businesses that have been affected by area ICE enforcement.
Sign-Up to Receive More Information:
Take Action for Local Immigrant Families
Local organizations are stepping up to support immigrant families during moments of fear, disruption, and real need. There are meaningful ways to help right now - whether by volunteering your time, delivering essentials, or helping ensure families feel safer in their own neighborhoods.
Ways You Can Help
- Support a trained rapid response team for ICE sightings
- Deliver food and essential items to local families
- Help monitor school bus stops to support student safety
ICE Sighting Hotline
Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights
855 - 435 - 7693
https://www.icirr.org/
Volunteer Opportunities
Partners for Our Communities
Email:
[email protected]
https://www.poc.news
Food Pantry Support
Faith Feeds Food Pantry (POC)
https://faithfeedsfp.org
Know Your Rights
Image courtesy of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights
In the United States, every person has rights protected by the U.S. Constitution. Every. Person. No matter who the president is or what our legal status is, it is crucial that we know them.
- If you are detained, you have the right to remain silent and to contact a lawyer.
- You have the right to a legal process and to have your case presented before an immigration judge.
If ICE Contacts You
- If ICE visits your home or work, do not open the door unless they present a court order signed by a judge.
- An immigration agent must show the court order through a window or slide it under the door.
- For an order to be valid, it must include your correct name, exact address, and a judge’s signature.
- Do not volunteer any information.
- You do not need to provide your immigration status or place of birth.
- Do not present false documentation or provide false information.
- You are not required to sign any documents in English, Spanish, or any other language without an attorney present.
Do you know a U.S. citizen, veteran or military service member, or permanent resident who is in ICE custody or is being repatriated?
Contact the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights at 855-435-7693.
For more information about your rights and the rights of our neighbors, visit their website:
https://www.icirr.org/
