El Pueblo Unido is designed to help key institutions—schools, places of worship, hospitals, and businesses—better understand recent policy changes and their impact on immigrant communities. This guide provides essential information to help community leaders navigate these changes, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of immigration status.

Recent shifts in policy have led to a situation where sensitive locations like schools and places of worship are no longer automatically protected from ICE enforcement. However, individuals still retain fundamental constitutional rights, including protection against unreasonable searches under the Fourth Amendment and the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. While some states and localities have policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, ICE retains the ability to take action.

It is important to be aware that, in border zones, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has broader authority to conduct searches. Federal law grants CBP the ability to board vehicles and vessels and search for individuals without immigration documentation within 100 air miles of any U.S. border or coastline. This “reasonable distance” zone includes not only land borders but the entire U.S. coastline, significantly impacting areas with large immigrant populations. Despite these expanded powers, individuals still retain the right to remain silent.

This guide provides institutions with the essential knowledge to navigate these challenges and effectively support their communities. Its title draws inspiration from the powerful chant ¡El pueblo unido jamás será vencido! (“A united people will never be defeated”), highlighting the strength and resilience of our communities when we stand together.

Please note: this guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.