The Latino Action Network (LAN) proudly congratulates Anna Lilia Mejia on her decisive victory in yesterday’s congressional race. This win marks a powerful moment for New Jersey and for communities who have long fought for representation rooted in justice, equity, and dignity.

Anna Lilia Mejia’s campaign was grounded in strong progressive values, a deep commitment to family, and an unwavering dedication to protecting immigrant communities. Throughout her campaign, she made clear that she stands with working families, believes in expanding opportunity, and is committed to building a more inclusive and just society.

The killing of Renée Nicole Good by a federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent this January in Minneapolis represents a chilling escalation in the use of force by immigration authorities — and a stark reminder that federal enforcement tactics are out of step with both community safety and civil rights.

Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother of three, was shot and killed by an ICE officer on January 7, 2026, during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Federal officials have characterized the incident as a justified use of force, claiming Good attempted to “weaponize” her vehicle in a way that posed a threat. Yet eyewitness accounts and bystander videos tell a different story: Good’s vehicle was moving away from the agents when the officer fired multiple shots through the windshield and side window, resulting in her death.

Christian Estevez, President Emeritus

Javier Robles, Executive President

Maria Andrade, Executive Vice President

Henry Peña, Secretary
Chair of the Labor and Workers’ Rights Committee

Yeimi Hernandez, Treasurer

Cory Garriga, Vice President of Public Policy
Chair of the Policy Committee

Brady D. Rivera, Vice President of Membership

Josely Castro, Vice President of Communications

Diego Mazariego, Vice President of Fundraising

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30th, 2025

Latino Action Network Endorses Leaders Committed to Our Community

[Trenton, NJ] — The Latino Action Network is proud to announce its endorsements of leaders at the state and local level who are committed to advancing the organization’s mission of equity, education, economic empowerment, health, and civic engagement in New Jersey.

In the current political climate—marked by challenges to Latina/Latino representation, equitable policy, and public education—the Network is supporting candidates who share its commitment to strong, inclusive governance. In addition, the organization will continue to support candidates at the state and federal levels who align with the principles of social justice, equity, and inclusion. We ask our members, constituents, and New Jersey voters to ensure that  our state remains powerful, not because it takes away from our citizens, but because it empowers them.  The Latino Action Network offers the following slate of candidates for your consideration.

Latino Action Network President and President Emeritus Javier Robles and Christian Estevez have released the following statement following Democratic gubernatorial candidate Steve Sweeney’s pledge to rescind New Jersey’s sanctuary state status if elected:

We deplore Steve Sweeney’s decision to play politics with the lives of thousands of New Jersey residents and their families. Our state is the most diverse in the nation, and at a time when our communities are facing unprecedented attacks from Donald Trump and his MAGA minions, we need elected officials who still stand up for New Jersey values.

Latino Action Network Urges Passage of the Full Immigrant Trust Act to Protect Immigrant Communities and Strengthen Public Safety in New Jersey

Trenton, NJ, January 30, 2025, 

The Latino Action Network (LAN) strongly supports the passage of the Immigrant Trust Act NJ Bill numbers S3672/A4987. This landmarklegislation reaffirms New Jersey’s commitment to protecting immigrant communities while ensuring the state’s resources are used efficiently for the benefit of all residents.

The Immigrant Trust Act prohibits using state and local resources for federal immigration enforcement, ensuring that all New Jersey residents can access essential services—such as healthcare, education, and law enforcement—without fear of deportation, detention, or family separation. This legislation is a critical step toward fostering trust between immigrant communities and public institutions while reinforcing New Jersey’s leadership in immigrant rights. The legislature must pass the full bill to protect the Constitution and our communities.

Latino Action Network Condemns ICE Raid in Newark, Demands End to Aggressive Enforcement Tactics in New Jersey

Posted by Javier Robles · January 25, 2025 12:05 PM · 1 reaction

Understanding Your Rights: What to Do When Law Enforcement Inquires About Your Immigration Status

Navigating interactions with law enforcement regarding your immigration status can be daunting and stressful. Whether you're stopped by police, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or Border Patrol, knowing your rights and how to protect yourself is crucial. This article provides essential guidelines to help you handle such encounters safely and legally.

How to Reduce Risk During Encounters

1. Stay Calm and Composed

   • Remain calm and avoid showing signs of distress.
   • Do not run, argue, resist, or obstruct the officer, even if you believe your rights are being violated.
   • Keep your hands visible to the officers at all times.

2. Honesty is Key

   • Do not lie about your immigration status.
   • Avoid providing false documents or information.

3. Prepare for Possible Arrest

   • Memorize important phone numbers, including those of family members and your lawyer.
   • Develop emergency plans, especially if you have children or require medication.

Know Your Rights

1. Right to Remain Silent

   • You are not obligated to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents, or other officials.
   • Anything you say can be used against you in immigration court.

2. Identification Requirements

   • In some states, you must provide your name when stopped by law enforcement.
   • If you're driving, you must show your license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, but not your immigration status.

3. Search Rights

   • Immigration agents cannot search you or your belongings without your consent or probable cause.
   • You have the right to refuse a search if there is no warrant.

4. Documentation for Non-Citizens

   • If you are not a U.S. citizen and have immigration papers, you must present them when requested by an immigration agent.
   • Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) should maintain their status and carry necessary documents at all times.

Specific Scenarios and Actions

1. Being Stopped While Driving

   • Pull over safely and remain in the vehicle.
   • Provide the required documents but refrain from answering questions about your immigration status.

2. Encounters at Home

   • Keep doors closed and speak to officers through the door.
   • Do not allow entry without a valid judicial search or arrest warrant.
   • Clearly state, “I do not consent to your entry,” if no warrant is presented.

3. Detention Near the Border

   • Remain calm and do not flee.
   • You have the right to remain silent and request an attorney.
   • Agents cannot detain you without reasonable suspicion or probable cause.

4. While in Transit (Airplanes, Buses, Trains)

   • On airplanes, pilots cannot discriminate based on immigration status.
   • On buses and trains, Border Patrol agents may ask for immigration information, which you can decline to answer.

5. During Immigration Proceedings

   • If detained, request a bond hearing before an immigration judge.
   • Always consult with a lawyer before making any decisions or signing documents.

If Your Rights Are Violated

1. Document the Incident

   • Write down all details, including officer badges, patrol car numbers, and agency names.
   • Collect contact information from any witnesses.

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • If injured, obtain medical help immediately and photograph your injuries.

3. File a Complaint

   • Submit a written complaint to the agency’s internal affairs division or civilian complaint board.
   • Complaints can often be filed anonymously.

Seeking Legal Assistance

• Right to a Lawyer
  • If arrested, you have the right to a government-appointed lawyer.
  • Detained individuals by ICE have the right to consult with a lawyer, though the government does not provide one.
  • Always ask for a list of free or low-cost legal alternatives if needed.

Additional Resources

For more information and assistance, consider reaching out to the following organizations:

• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
• National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Know Your Rights
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center
• American Immigration Lawyers Association
• ACLU Video: What to Do If Stopped by Police or ICE

These organizations offer comprehensive toolkits, legal resources, and multilingual support to help you understand and exercise your rights effectively.

Conclusion

Facing law enforcement inquiries about your immigration status requires calmness, awareness of your rights, and preparedness. By understanding the appropriate actions to take and knowing where to seek help, you can navigate these challenging situations more safely and confidently. Always consider consulting with a legal professional to receive personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal assistance, please consult a qualified attorney.

Information courtesy of National ACLU.