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.

PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMEDIATA
Contacto de Prensa:
Cory Garriga
[email protected]
(908) 346-3825

Proyecto de Ley de Presupuesto — Insta a los Representantes de Nueva Jersey a Bloquear la Versión Dañina de la Cámara
Trenton, NJ — 2 de julio de 2025 — La Latino Action Network (LAN), bajo el liderazgo de su presidente Javier Robles, hace un llamado a todos los miembros de la Cámara de Representantes de EE.UU. de Nueva Jersey para que se opongan a la versión de la Cámara del proyecto de ley de reconciliación recientemente aprobado por el Senado. Conocido oficialmente como el proyecto de presupuesto “grande y hermoso” de Trump, sus recortes draconianos a Medicaid, SNAP, subsidios del ACA y más representan una amenaza existencial para las familias latinas, las personas con discapacidades y la comunidad en general del Garden State.

A Call to Action: Strengthening Latino Representation in New Jersey State Government

As Latinos continue to shape the social, cultural, and economic landscape of New Jersey, it is imperative that our state’s governing bodies reflect the rich diversity and lived experiences of our communities. The Latino Action Network stands in firm support of increasing Latino representation in the New Jersey State Legislature—and, critically, of retaining and empowering the dedicated lawmakers who comprise the current Latino Caucus. At a time when federal policies and rhetoric too often marginalize immigrants and communities of color, our collective voice must grow stronger at the state level.

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.

     

The Working Summit 25 is a reconvening of State Leadership, Returning Citizens, the Advocate community, affected Families, & Incarcerated voices throughout NJ to address the continued gross overrepresentation of African Americans and Latinos throughout the Criminal Justice system in New Jersey.

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