The Medford City Democratic Committee in Massachusetts plans to distribute cards to immigrants to remind them of their rights if approached by authorities. The committee has already purchased 4,000 cards, Boston 25 News reported, and plans to purchase 4,000 more.
“We’re just trying to find things we can do that are feasible to resist what’s happening at the federal level,” explained Medford City Councilor Matthew Leming. “It’s a way to protect our immigrant communities from the actions of the current administration.”
“If ICE shows up, and they don’t have a warrant, it can literally be passed under the door,” Leming said. “The federal government is trying to test its limits. They’re trying to see how far they can get.”
The cards are printed in English as well as Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, and Haitian.
The cards read:
“I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.
“I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.
“I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.
“I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.
“These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.”
Medford passed a “Welcoming City Ordinance” in January.
