"Know Your Rights" training about immigrant concerns held at local restaraunt

Wednesday evening, February 8, 2017, Michigan United, a statewide organization committed to participatory democracy at all levels, provided “Know Your Rights” training to more than 40 community members about the rights of immigrant families. Those in attendance represented nonprofit organizations and social service agencies, as well as individuals concerned about the separation of families in the case of detention and deportation.  The event, held at the Grand Rapids Brewing Company, was organized by Leticia Heusties, Grand Rapids Administrative Relief Organizer and supported by the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters.

Led by Michigan United’s Legal Director Diego Bonesatti and Detroit Immigrant Organizer Adonis Flores, the training focused on four major topics. The first examined the rights of individuals stopped by police, most often for traffic infractions.  The second discussed what to do if U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) officials come to a family’s home. A third examined an individual’s rights if detained or arrested. The last topic centered on how to develop a safety plan: for example, what documents to carry, what children or elderly relatives should do in case of detention; and copies of immigration records.  

Michigan United was organized in 2013 when the Michigan Organizing Project (MOP) and the Alliance for Immigrant Rights (AIR) merged to form a statewide organization of churches, labor, and community groups that are committed to a broad range of social justice issues. Almost 50 such organizations are members of Michigan United. At present comprehensive immigration reform is a top priority.

For more information about future “Know Your Rights” trainings or to schedule a training for your organization, contact Leticia Huesties at [email protected].