Citizenship & Immigration Services

Know Your Rights

The YWCA Elgin is proud to offer Know Your Rights training to empower our community. These trainings are designed to educate individuals about their rights when interacting with Immigration authorities, I.C.E., or the Police.

Our training sessions cover essential topics such as how to identify officer badges and understand their authority, the difference between judicial and immigration warrants, practical steps to prepare yourself for encounters with law enforcement, and more critical insights to ensure you are informed and protected.

At the YWCA Elgin, we are committed to staying up-to-date with changes in the law and will continuously update our training materials. We will also keep the community informed about any new legislation that may impact their rights.

These workshops are a part of our mission to support and empower individuals in our community through education and advocacy. Stay informed and prepared.

YWCA Elgin Action Plan: Preparedness and Protection

At YWCA Elgin, we prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals and families in our community. Our mission is to ensure that everyone is informed, prepared, and empowered to protect their rights and care for their loved ones in times of emergency.

Why an Action Plan Matters: An emergency can happen unexpectedly. It’s essential to plan ahead and ensure you and your family are ready. Our action plan helps you gather and organize critical information so you can quickly take the necessary steps during difficult times.

What to Include in Your Action Plan: Our action plan provides a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare. It includes biographical information, emergency contacts, legal documents, medical records, and more. Key elements of the action plan include:

• Personal and family biographical details (birth dates, medical history)

• Emergency contacts and medical professionals

• Immigration-related documents and attorney details

• Documents proving identity and residence, such as passports, social security, birth certificates, and income tax returns

• Information about children, including their schools, medical history, and emergency contacts

Emergency Contacts: Designate trusted individuals who can care for your children or help manage your affairs in the event of an emergency. It's important to have reliable emergency contacts and backup contacts.

Checklist of Essential Documents: Keep a safe, accessible location for your critical documents. Our action plan provides a detailed checklist to ensure you don’t overlook anything important. Some of the key documents to include are:

• Identification documents (birth certificates, social security cards, passports)

• Medical records and lists of medications

• Educational and school-related documents for children

• Financial records, including bank information and property details

• Proof of continuous U.S. residence and good moral character

Family and Children’s Care Plan: In case you are unavailable to care for your children, designate individuals who are authorized to step in. This plan ensures your children’s safety and well-being, even when you’re not around.

Additional Resources and Tips: In addition to the above, our plan offers guidance on managing your bank accounts, transferring important information to another country, and keeping updated records together in one place. The YWCA Elgin also encourages men to register for Selective Service.

Start Your Action Plan Today: We encourage you to take the time to complete your action plan and ensure your family is ready. Visit our website for more resources and assistance on preparing for emergencies.

Know Your Rights Informational Videos

If you're unable to attend a YWCA Elgin Know Your Rights Workshop, you can watch our instructional videos below to learn the essentials. These videos will be updated whenever laws change.

Support the YWCA Elgin in providing essential Know Your Rights information and immigration services by making a donation today! Your contribution makes a difference!