ICE Questioning You in Minnesota?
Your rights. Your dignity. Your power.
By Sullivan rICE
If ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) questions you, it can feel intimidating and unfair. You are not alone — and you are not powerless. This guide is written for you, not for ICE, to help you protect yourself, your family, and your future.
You Have Rights — No Matter Your Status
Your constitutional rights apply regardless of immigration status. ICE does not get special permission to ignore them.
You have the right to:
Remain silent
Refuse consent to searches
Speak with a lawyer
Ask whether you are free to leave
Using your rights is not suspicious. It is smart.
If ICE Approaches You in Public
If ICE questions you on the street, in a parking lot, or at work:
Stay calm and do not run
Ask clearly:
“Am I being detained, or am I free to leave?”
If you are free to leave, you can walk away. If you are detained, you still have rights.
You do not have to answer questions about:
Where you were born
Your immigration status
How you entered the U.S.
Your family or friends
You can say:
“I choose to remain silent and I want to speak to a lawyer.”
Repeat it if necessary.
You Do NOT Have to Help ICE Build a Case Against You
ICE may sound friendly or casual. That does not mean they are on your side.
You do not have to:
Explain your status
Share documents unless legally required
Sign anything
Make statements without a lawyer
Anything you say can be used against you later. Silence protects you.
If ICE Comes to Your Home
ICE cannot legally enter your home without a judicial warrant.
You do not have to open the door.
You can ask (through the door):
“Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?”
A valid warrant must:
Be signed by a judge (not just ICE)
Have your correct name and address
If they do not have one, you can say:
“I do not consent to entry.”
Staying inside and staying silent is your right.
If You Are Detained or Arrested
If ICE detains you:
Do not resist physically
Do not answer questions
Ask for a lawyer immediately
Say:
“I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak with an attorney.”
Do not sign forms you do not understand — especially documents that waive your rights or agree to deportation.
Prepare and Protect Yourself Now
Being prepared can make a huge difference.
Consider:
Memorizing the phone number of an immigration attorney
Keeping copies of important documents in a safe place
Choosing an emergency contact
Carrying a Know Your Rights card in your wallet
A simple statement can be enough:
“I choose to remain silent and speak to a lawyer.”
Minnesota Communities Are Not Alone
Minnesota has strong community networks, advocates, and legal resources that support immigrants and families facing ICE enforcement. You deserve protection, dignity, and fair treatment.
If you are worried about ICE contact, talk to a lawyer before an encounter happens. Knowing your options early gives you power.
Final Word
ICE encounters are scary — but knowledge is protection. You do not have to make ICE’s job easier. You have the right to stand up for yourself calmly, legally, and confidently.
