SAFE GC Coalition: Parent Committee Hosts Immigration Info Night

To address the fear, confusion and uncertainty expressed by the community to the Coalition’s Parent Committee Chair/bilingual Life Skills Parent Program Facilitator, Mrs. Laurent Caballero, hosted an information awareness night featuring a presentation by Glen Cove attorney Mr. Joshua Goldschlager, who specializes in immigration matters.

To educate the community about their rights and empower them to become self-advocates, Mr. Goldschalger provided critical guidance to parents who attend the Life Skills Training program on how to respond if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents come to their residence.

Mr. Goldschlager emphasized key steps individuals should take to protect themselves:

• Do not open the door – Residents are not required to let ICE agents in unless they have a valid warrant
• Verify the warrant – A warrant must be signed by a federal civil judge and must be very specific in detail.
• Know your legal support – Individuals should keep their lawyer’s contact information readily available in case they need immediate assistance.

• Parents expressed concerns about ICE agents entering schools. In response, Mr. Goldschlager stated that school districts have assured parents they will not permit ICE to enter their premises. Same goes for houses of worship.
• The importance of being prepared in case a spouse is detained. Having a plan in place can make a significant difference in navigating the legal process smoothly.
• Please understand that the traditional process of becoming am American citizen has been disrupted
• Keep a trusted immigration or criminal defense attorney’s number easily accessible.

Mr. Goldschlager highlighted that understanding these rights can make a significant difference in ensuring due process and legal protection. Attendees were encouraged to share this information within their communities to help others stay informed and prepared.

The SAFE Glen Cove Coalition was formed in 2002 to change societal norms about alcohol and substance use and address the risk factors that contribute to addiction. The Parent Committee of the Coalition serves as liaison to all parents in the community and acts as a bilingual parent resource for the Latino population. To learn more about the SAFE Glen Cove Coalition please follow us on www.facebook.com/safeglencovecoalition.