Dear CITG community, friends and allies,
Some of us have recently seen ICE in our neighborhoods, and we understand how stressful and scary this can be. At least two of our members have been detained, and we are receiving calls from people who are afraid to leave their homes or seek services. As many of us know, Trump has signed many pro-hate executive orders that do nothing to address real issues in our country. As TGNB sex workers, immigrants, BIPOC, and people with HIV, we have always lived under the threat of the police state and regressive policies. We have been used for political points and personal agendas. We see conversations that affect us, but only include people who speak English. It is our turn to speak! We want to be clear: No one is illegal. We are not going anywhere. We are not afraid to keep fighting!
Our communities are strong, and we will continue to stand together in solidarity, supporting one another as we always have. As part of our efforts to protect our members, some in-person support groups will become virtual. Earlier this week, we released a Know Your Rights guide on our Instagram page in collaboration with lawyers from Take Root Justice. You can find this guide and other updates from our team here. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
If ICE approaches you, you can say "I have the right to remain silent". You can say this even if you already started talking.
There are different types of warrants; a valid warrant is from a court and signed by a judge. A general warrant signed by ICE agents does not allow them to enter your home.
If you are stopped on the street, you can ask "am I free to leave?" If the answer is yes, leave calmly.
Non-citizens are required to carry valid immigration documents (ex: "green card", work permit) when outside. Showing a foreign passport or fake documents can create legal problems.
Keep your medications and a list of health conditions in a package at home. If you are arrested, you can ask someone to bring this to you.
If you are denied medical treatment, or have been misgendered or insulted, try to remember the names, badge numbers or descriptions of the officers involved.
CITG is an organization founded and staffed by people who have a personal understanding of these issues. We challenge our partners to move beyond "allyship" to being active collaborators in the fight for our safety, health and dignity. Please donate or share our GoFundMe to help us purchase a van as soon as possible. This van is urgently needed and will provide a safer space for us to meet clients who are unable to come to our office. It will also keep our staff safer during late-night outreach in heavily policed areas.
We are here for you, and we will continue to fight for our right to remain in our community. Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you need assistance or have questions.
We remain strong and resisting!
Always in solidarity,
CITG Staff
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