As we navigate recent policy changes that could affect immigrant communities, Literacy Pittsburgh strives to inform, support, and empower our students and staff without creating unnecessary fear. On January 15, we had the privilege of hosting Monica Ruiz, Executive Director of Casa San Jose, for a "Know Your Rights" presentation. While not legal advice, this session provided critical information about rights everyone living in the United States has under the U.S. Constitution and how to navigate interactions with government officials. This session helped equip the Literacy Pittsburgh community with practical tools and resources to face these challenges with confidence.
Why This Matters
Changes in executive orders have highlighted the need for vigilance, particularly for individuals with prior interactions with law enforcement, those with deportation orders, and even lawful permanent residents. While these policies may increase scrutiny, it’s essential to remember that everyone has rights under the law, and knowing them is the first step to ensuring safety and dignity.
Reflections on the Recent Know Your Rights Session
The session aimed to empower students and staff alike, equipping them with knowledge they can share with others. By fostering awareness and preparedness, the session reinforced our community’s ability to face potential challenges with calm and confidence. We thank Monica for sharing her time and expertise with us.
Important Points
The foundation of this session is to provide practical steps and a clear understanding of rights in various scenarios. Here are some highlights:
1. Constitutional Rights:
- The right to remain silent.
- The right to an attorney.
- The right to refuse a search without a valid warrant or probable cause.
2. Staying Calm and Prepared:
- Maintain composure during any interaction with law enforcement or immigration officials.
- Do not sign any documents or share immigration status without legal counsel.
- Document encounters carefully, noting officer names, badge numbers, and other details.
3. Safety Planning:
- Designate private areas in homes and workplaces where access can be controlled.
- Practice safety plans with family, coworkers, or trusted allies.
- Gather and safeguard critical documents, such as emergency contact information and proof of identity.
Building Confidence and Resilience
These steps empower individuals and families, ensuring they can face potential situations clearly and understand their rights. The emphasis is on preparation and calm action, not fear. We aim to foster a sense of security and agency within immigrant communities through these resources.
How You Can Help
Our supporters—donors, partners, volunteers, and community members—play a vital role in this effort. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Share Knowledge: Disseminate the "Know Your Rights" information to your networks, ensuring it reaches those who need it most. Many organizations, including Literacy Pittsburgh, have cards available for clients in different languages outlining these rights. You can also print your own at the Immigrant Legal Resource Center website.
- Support Students: Contribute to Literacy Pittsburgh financially or through volunteering to help keep our programs strong and ensure students feel supported, welcome, and confident.
- Advocate: Stay informed about policies and advocate for fair treatment and inclusion. Seek out reliable sources of information and always fact-check rumors. Reliable sources you can consult include the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.
A Shared Responsibility
We understand that these are sensitive times, but with a collective effort, we can help individuals feel prepared and supported. We're helping communities succeed by providing education and support.
Thank you for standing with us in this important work. Together, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to succeed. For further information or to get involved, please visit our website.
Let’s continue to build a stronger, more informed community—together.
Literacy Pittsburgh (formerly Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council) helps create better lives through learning. Recognized as a national leader in adult and family literacy, Literacy Pittsburgh is the largest provider of adult basic education in Allegheny and Beaver Counties. Last year, Literacy Pittsburgh helped more than 4,000 individuals acquire the skills needed to reach their fullest potential in life and participate productively in their communities. Literacy Pittsburgh provides free, personalized instruction in workforce readiness, high school diploma test preparation, digital literacy, English language learning, math, reading, and family literacy through one-to-one and small class instruction. Founded in 1982, it serves local adults through numerous neighborhood locations and its Downtown Pittsburgh Learning Center.
