Group distributes resources to immigrants

Given the current political climate, many who know immigrant families sense a significant increase in the level of fear, said Alex Schmidt, who helped start North Central Washington United (NCWU).

The 200-member group, which meets monthly, updates people on news and plans actions related to justice and equity.

The NCWU’s Immigration/Race and Justice group recently distributed resources to immigrants, schools, nonprofits and businesses to address fears.

The documents, in Spanish and English, are electronically available at the Eastern Washington Idaho Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, ewaid.org, Alex said.

The packet includes five items:

1. The Family Safety Plan helps families prepare for mass raids or individual apprehensions.

2. Power of Attorney is a legal document about giving power to a trusted person for custody of children, property assets, finances, medical and more.

3. Know Your Rights informs families of their rights if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) comes to their home or work.

4. What to Do in Case of a Raid/Apprehension gives instructions on finding a detainee, documentation, legal help and more.

5. Employer’s Rights, in English only, discusses rights of employers in an ICE visit.

6. Washington Immigration Activity Hotline 844-RAID-REP (844-724-3737) receives reports of ICE activity.  The hotline has teams of volunteers and legal advocates to support and protect immigrants in a timely fashion in Spanish and English.

In addition to the documents, the group provides education, direct support and advocacy for legislation in Olympia and Washington, D.C.

For information, call 509-548-7012 or email lxhappns@nwi.net or visit https://sites.google.com/view/ncwunited/home.

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