Thanksgiving is a time when families come together. But for many immigrant families across the United States, a knock at the door could mean separation instead of reunion. It’s hard to give thanks when you’re afraid to answer the door. That fear is real—and it’s growing.
As families plan holiday meals, others are quietly making different preparations: gathering passports, locating birth certificates, and explaining to their children what to do if a parent is detained.
This is not about politics. It’s about planning.
Yesterday, the Church State Council released a practical, nonpartisan YouTube video titled “Before the Knock: How to Prepare for Immigration Enforcement.” The presenters—Andre Wang, legal counsel for the North Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and Stephen Allred, director of government relations for the Church State Council and a board member of Founders’ First Freedom—offer essential information for individuals, families, and faith communities on how to lawfully prepare for immigration enforcement actions.
The message is not to avoid the law. It is to follow it, understand your rights, and be ready to prove your legal presence immediately—because that’s what enforcement now demands.
ICE currently detains more than 66,000 individuals, according to its own figures. That’s a 70 percent increase over last year. What many don’t realize is that 71 percent of those currently in custody have no criminal convictions. Some are lawful permanent residents. Some have pending cases. Others are U.S. citizens who couldn’t produce documentation fast enough.
Legal status doesn’t mean safety if you can’t prove it on the spot. Watch the Video for More Practical Details and talk to an immigration attorney if you have questions.
If You’re a U.S. Citizen:
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Carry a copy of your passport ID page, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
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At a minimum, keep a government-issued ID on you and copies of other records in a safe, accessible place.
If You’re a Lawful Permanent Resident:
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Carry your green card, as required by law.
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Keep a backup copy stored securely.
If You’re a Visa Holder:
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Carry your I-94 record and visa documentation.
If You Have a Pending Application:
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Carry a copy of your work permit and USCIS receipt notices showing that your case is being processed.
Expired documents are better than no documents. Even U.S. citizens have been mistakenly detained when they couldn’t verify their identity quickly.
Make an Emergency Plan
If you have children, elderly parents, or other dependents, now is the time to prepare:
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Create a durable power of attorney to authorize someone you trust to manage finances, sign documents, or care for children if you’re detained.
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Make a child care plan with school pickup authorization and emergency health care consent.
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Memorize key phone numbers and store original documents in a secure but accessible place.
Churches and Schools Also Need a Plan
To date, according to the video, there are no confirmed reports of ICE entering Seventh-day Adventist churches or schools in North America. But agents have conducted enforcement in surrounding public areas, which has caused some to be concerned.
If agents come to a church or school:
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Do not allow entry unless they have a warrant.
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Ask for identification and record it.
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Designate a single, trained spokesperson.
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Do not interfere with their investigation.
During Enforcement
If you are approached:
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Stay calm. Do not run.
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Ask: “Am I free to leave?”
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If you are not free to leave, say: “I wish to remain silent and speak with an attorney.”
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Do not sign any documents without legal counsel.
You may legally record immigration actions in public spaces, but you may not interfere.
Legal Advice Is Still Essential
The video offers general, practical guidance—but it’s no substitute for a qualified immigration attorney. If you’re uncertain about your status, your documents, or your options, the most important thing you can do is speak with a licensed immigration attorney now. Every case is different, and delay can make things worse.
This isn’t just legal theory. This is happening. It’s affecting longtime residents, workers, students, and families. And it’s happening quietly, even during the holidays.
Why This Matters at Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving celebrates connection, family, and gratitude. But for many immigrant families, the stress of possible detention overshadows the table. A missed knock or a missing document can lead to separation, confusion, and long-term consequences.
That’s why preparing now is an act of love.
Gather your documents. Make your plan. Talk to an attorney. Then sit down at your Thanksgiving table knowing you’ve done what you can to protect your family and your future.
Watch the full video here
Help others prepare
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AI Disclaimer:
This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence and reviewed for factual accuracy. It is not legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney for guidance.
Legal Disclaimer:
This article does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is unique. Readers should consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice.
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