HARTFORD, CT – Legal advocates and immigration lawyers across Connecticut are issuing urgent calls for immigrant families to establish formal preparedness plans, regardless of their current immigration status. This push comes amid concerns over potential detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and aims to ensure the well-being of children and the security of assets in such an event.
Organizations serving the immigrant community are reporting a notable increase in requests for assistance in creating these critical arrangements. The focus is particularly sharp on securing the future care of minor children should parents face detention.
Growing Demand for Planning Services
Diana Calle, a manager with Latino Multiservices Agency LLC located on Colony Street in Meriden, highlighted the rising demand for specific legal preparations. Calle noted a recent uptick in requests for notarized child care authorizations. This surge has been particularly pronounced during the school year, reflecting parents’ anxieties about ensuring clear arrangements are in place for their children if they are detained by ICE while the children are attending school.
The proactive approach advocated by legal professionals is designed to mitigate the potential chaos and uncertainty that families can face during immigration enforcement actions. Having documented plans in place for guardianship, financial matters, and communication protocols can provide a degree of stability during a deeply disruptive time.
The Human Impact: A New Haven Case
The urgency behind these calls for preparedness is underscored by real-world incidents. An image accompanying reporting on this issue depicted ICE agents arresting a woman in New Haven while she was in the process of taking her children to school on June 9, 2025. This visual example serves as a stark reminder of how immigration enforcement can intersect with daily family life and the potential immediate need for established care arrangements for children.
Such instances highlight the vulnerability families experience and reinforce the necessity of having pre-arranged legal and personal plans that can be quickly enacted if a parent is detained unexpectedly.
State-Level Resources Available
Recognizing the vital need for accessible information and tools, the State of Connecticut has developed a comprehensive family preparedness plan. This initiative was modeled after a similar resource created by the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, a nationally recognized organization providing legal and policy expertise on immigration issues.
The state’s plan offers a wealth of critical information designed to empower immigrant families. It includes detailed information on immigrant rights, guiding families on how to interact with law enforcement and immigration officials. Furthermore, it provides practical advice on how to find a reputable lawyer specializing in immigration law, a crucial step for anyone navigating the complex legal system.
Components of the Preparedness Plan
A key feature of the state’s resource is the provision of printable worksheets and checklists. These tools are designed to help families compile a comprehensive “family file” containing essential documents and information. Such a file might include birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of residency, contact information for legal counsel and designated caregivers, financial records, and instructions for child care.
The act of gathering this information and completing the worksheets serves not only as preparation for potential emergencies but also helps families organize important personal and legal documents in one accessible location.
Accessing Support and Information
These valuable resources, including the state’s family preparedness plan and the accompanying worksheets and checklists, have been made widely available. They are accessible through most advocacy agencies working with immigrant communities across Connecticut. This ensures that families can receive guidance and support in utilizing the materials.
In addition to accessing the resources through local organizations, the state’s preparedness plan is also available online. It can be found on the state website, typically located under the governor’s office tab, making it readily accessible to anyone with internet access.
The concerted effort by lawyers and advocates, supported by state-level resources, emphasizes the proactive steps immigrant families are encouraged to take to safeguard their loved ones and affairs in the face of potential immigration enforcement actions.
