Way to Grow knows that recent immigration enforcement actions have created fear for many Minneapolis families. This page provides information about your rights, how to create a safety plan, and where to find legal and community support.
Your Rights
Understanding your rights provides a foundation of knowledge during uncertain times. These rights apply to everyone, regardless of immigration status:
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, whether you are a U.S. citizen, or how you entered the country.
- You have the right to refuse a search. Immigration officers need a warrant signed by a judge to enter your home. You can ask to see the warrant through a closed door or window. A warrant must have your correct name and address.
- You have the right to speak with a lawyer. If you are detained, you can ask for a lawyer. Do not sign anything without speaking to a lawyer first.
- You do not have to open your door. If immigration officers knock on your door without a judicial warrant, you do not have to let them in. Ask them to slide any warrant under the door so you can check if it is signed by a judge.
Informed Immigrant: Know Your Rights
Comprehensive rights information in multiple languages
informedimmigrant.com/guides/know-your-rights
ACLU: Know Your Rights – Immigrants’ Rights
Detailed guidance on interactions with immigration enforcement
aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights
Making a Safety Plan
Having a plan reduces fear and helps families feel more prepared. Consider these steps:
1. Create an Emergency Contact List
Write down phone numbers for:
- A trusted family member or friend who can care for your children
- An immigration attorney
- Your country’s consulate
Keep this list in your wallet, your phone, and at home where children can find it.
2. Designate a Caregiver
Choose someone who can care for your children if you cannot. Minnesota allows you to designate a temporary caregiver without court involvement.
- Write down who will care for your children and what authority they will have.
- Both parents must sign the document in front of a notary public.
- Give copies to your caregiver and your children’s school.
3. Free or Low-Cost Notary Services in Minneapolis
Free Options:
- Banks and credit unions – Most offer free notary for members (Wells Fargo, US Bank, Affinity Plus, Wings Financial). Call ahead to confirm.
- Hennepin County Libraries – Some locations offer free notary by appointment. Call 612-543-8000 or visit hclib.org
- AAA Minnesota – Free for members. Multiple Twin Cities locations. 612-362-2222 | minneapolis.aaa.com
Low-Cost Options:
- UPS Stores – $10-15 per signature, no appointment needed. theupsstore.com
- Mobile notary services – $25-75, will come to your home. Search “mobile notary Minneapolis”
4. Teach Your Children What to Do
Age-appropriate conversations help children know:
- Who to call if something happens
- Where important documents are kept
- That they should never open the door to strangers
- Your children’s schools are intended to be safe spaces, and we understand families may still feel uncertain or concerned
5. Prepare Important Documents
Keep copies of:
- Birth certificates for all family members
- School records
- Medical records
- Identification documents
- Contact information for your immigration attorney
Store originals in a fireproof safe at home and give copies to your designated caregiver.
6. Plan for Financial Needs
Make sure your designated caregiver has access to funds for your children’s immediate needs. Consider a joint bank account or written authorization.
Legal Support and Advocacy
The Advocates for Human Rights
Free or low-cost immigration legal services in Minnesota
612-341-3302
theadvocatesforhumanrights.org
Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota
Legal services and community education
651-642-1890
ilcm.org
Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC)
Community organizing and immigrant rights advocacy
miracmn.com
National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
Resources and policy updates
nilc.org
United We Dream
Immigrant youth-led organization with resources and hotlines
844-363-1423 (legal support hotline)
unitedwedream.org
Mental Health Support for Immigration-Related Stress
Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES)
Mental health services for Latino families in Minnesota
612-746-3500
clues.org
Center for Victims of Torture
Services for survivors of torture and trauma, including immigrants
612-436-4800
cvt.org
City of Minneapolis Culturally Specific Mental Health Resources
Connection to culturally responsive therapists
minneapolismn.gov PDF
Minnesota Teen Mental Health Directory
www.mnteenmentalhealth.org (includes BIPOC resources)
Community Support
Sanctuary congregations and organizations: Some Minneapolis faith communities and organizations provide sanctuary, accompaniment to appointments, and community support. Contact local congregations directly to learn about available support.
Minneapolis Public Schools Family Support
Schools are safe spaces for all children regardless of immigration status
612-668-0000
mpls.k12.mn.us
Hennepin County Human Services
Services are available to all families regardless of immigration status
612-596-1300
hennepin.us Human Services
Other Resources in this Series
- Supporting Families and Children Through Difficult Events (Main Page)
- What Children Need During Difficult Times
- What Grown-ups Need During Difficult Times
- Crisis Hotlines and Community Resources for Families
Way to Grow Is Here
Way to Grow walks alongside Twin Cities families through every season. Our Family Educators provide support, connection, education, and guidance from pregnancy through third grade.
- Learn About Our Programs
- Become a Way to Grow family today
- Contact us by emailing wtg@mplswaytogrow.org or call 612.874.4740
