Protecting Ourselves in Times of Increased Repression
A Guide for Immigrants & Activists
If you are a student or university worker concerned about political targeting related to your immigration status, please contact us here.
As we witness escalating attacks and severe oppression—particularly targeting immigrant communities and pro-Palestinian activists—it's more important than ever to be prepared. The risks of surveillance, detention, and harassment are real, but there are concrete steps we can take to protect ourselves and our movements.
Many incredible organizations have developed free, accessible resources to help us stay safe—but with so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Below, we've compiled a shortlist of most essential actions with links to some of the most useful trainings and tools available.
- Secure Your Digital Footprint - Surveillance is a growing threat, but basic digital security can make a huge difference. Secure Justice offers clear, step-by-step guides on protecting your devices, communications, and online activities. Follow these two checklists for general online security and device protection steps.
- Know Your Rights - Whether at a protest, during a police stop, or in an encounter with ICE, understanding your legal rights is essential. Clear (Creating Law Enforcement Accountability & Responsibility) provides know-your-rights information and trainings tailored for activists and targeted communities.
- Have a Lawyer Ready - If you or someone in your network is detained or questioned, immediate legal support is critical. If you feel at risk due to your political activism, fill out our intake form and we will connect you with movement-aligned attorneys for a consultation.
- Organize with Your Community and Build Support - When repression happens, rapid response can make a real difference. Organize a phone tree (a pre-planned emergency contact system) so your community can mobilize quickly in case of arrests or raids. Student for Justice in Palestine At UC Berkeley prepared this example emergency from for at risk students that you can modify and use.