Recent immigration enforcement actions have raised concerns among many families in Washington, including members of the Tongan community. Whether you are directly impacted or want to support those who are, it is essential to stay informed. The Tongan Community Resource Center is committed to ensuring that our community has the resources and knowledge to navigate these challenges.
What to Know
1. Don’t Spread Fear or Rumors – Verify Before Sharing
Misinformation can create unnecessary panic. If you hear about an ICE raid, do not share unverified reports on social media. Instead, report possible raids to trusted immigrant advocacy groups that can confirm and respond appropriately. Washington has several rapid response networks, including bilingual hotlines, to verify ICE activity. Organizations like the National Tongan American Society (NTAS) have been proactive in supporting their communities with legal assistance and clear guidance on how to handle ICE encounters.
2. Know Your Rights
Regardless of immigration status, everyone in the U.S. has rights under the Constitution. These include:
- The Right to Remain Silent – You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status.
- The Right to Refuse Entry – Do not open your door unless an officer presents a judicial warrant signed by a judge.
- The Right to Legal Representation – You can ask to speak to an attorney before answering questions.
Organizations such as the ACLU provide “Know Your Rights” guides that explain what to do in different situations, including interactions at home, in public, and at work. The NTAS has also shared this vital information with the Tongan community to ensure that families are prepared if ICE visits their homes.
3. What to Do if You Witness an ICE Raid
If you see immigration enforcement activities in your area:
- Ensure your own safety before taking action.
- It is legal to record ICE agents in public as long as you do not interfere.
- Take note of key details: location, time, number of agents, and vehicles used.
- Report the raid to local advocacy groups that can provide support
4. How to Locate a Detained Family Member
If a loved one has been detained by ICE:
- Use the ICE Detainee Locator System (available online) after 48 hours of detention.
- You will need the person’s full name, date of birth, and country of origin, or their A-number (a unique identification number assigned by immigration authorities).
- Contact the nearest ICE field office or the consulate of the detained person’s home country for assistance.
5. How You Can Help
Even if you are not personally at risk, you can support affected families by:
- Sharing Know Your Rights information within your church, family, and community groups.
- Volunteering with local immigrant support organizations.
- Encouraging local schools, workplaces, and churches to adopt policies that protect immigrant families.
- Advocating for policies that ensure safe and supportive communities for all.
Our Commitment to the Community
The Tongan Community Resource Center is here to support you. We provide information and offer resources for those seeking assistance. Rest assured, we are also taking every precaution to ensure that our families are protected and cared for. Our goal is to provide a safe space for our community while taking steps to safeguard our well-being.
For more information or assistance, please contact us at info@tongancrc.org. We stand together as a community, ensuring that every family has the resources they need to stay safe and informed.