What Should I Do If ICE Comes to My Door?
There’s a lot of fear in Philly right now. People are hearing stories—neighbors getting picked up, ICE showing up at doors again. Some people are afraid to go to work, to send their kids to school, or even to open the door.
There’s a lot of fear in Philly right now. People are hearing stories—neighbors getting picked up, ICE showing up at doors again. Some people are afraid to go to work, to send their kids to school, or even to open the door.
The fear is real. The government has turned up the heat, and communities like ours are feeling it. That’s why it’s more important than ever to know your rights—and to know what’s true and what’s not.
Let’s break it down.
You may hear that you have to let ICE into your home or talk to them if they show up. Some people think if you don’t open the door, it means you’re hiding something.
The truth is, you don’t have to open the door. You don’t have to say a word. ICE can’t come in unless they have the right kind of warrant—and most of the time, they don’t.
Here’s what to do:
Stay calm. Don’t open the door. You can talk through the door or through a window.
Ask to see the warrant. It has to be signed by a judge. That means it says:
“U.S. District Court” or “State Court”
Has your full name and address
Signed by a judge—not just ICE
Don’t accept ICE papers that are not signed by a judge.ICE often uses something called a “warrant of removal.” That is not a real search warrant. You do not have to open the door.
Say clearly: “I do not want to talk to you.” “I do not give you permission to come in.”
If they come in anyway:Don’t fight them. Say, “I do not consent to this search.” Write down what happened or ask someone to help you do it later.
Bottom line:There’s a reason people are scared right now. Some politicians are using fear to score political points, hoping communities will be too afraid to stand up for themselves. But you’re not alone, and you still have power. If you’re worried or need help, contact the PA Immigrant Family Unity Project or the ACLU of Pennsylvania.
Other Resources:
Know Your Rights: If ICE Visits Your Home
Know Your Rights: If You Encounter ICE | National Immigrant Justice Center
