Know Your Rights: A Guide for All Americans

Your Constitutional Rights

Every American has rights protected by the U.S. Constitution, and knowing them is key to protecting yourself and your community. Use this page to learn more about the most important rights everyone should know.

  1. Freedom of Speech & Assembly (First Amendment)

  • You have the right to express your opinions in public or online.

  • You can peacefully protest without fear of arrest, as long as you follow local laws.

  • The government cannot censor you, but private companies (like social media platforms) can set their own rules.

Learn more: ACLU Free Speech Guide

  1. Protection Against Unlawful Searches & Seizures (Fourth Amendement)

  • Police must have a warrant or probable cause to search your home, car, or personal belongings.

  • You do not have to consent to a search.

  • If stopped, ask "Am I free to go?" If not, you have the right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer.

Learn more: Know Your Rights: Police Encounters

  1. Right to Remain Silent (Fifth Amendment)

  • You do not have to answer questions from police or immigration officers.

  • Say: "I am invoking my right to remain silent and I want a lawyer."

Learn more: Your Right to Remain Silent

  1. Right to a Fair Trial & Legal Representation (Sixth Amendment)

  • You have the right to a lawyer if you are arrested. If you cannot afford one, the court must provide one.

  • You have the right to a speedy trial and to know what you are being charged with.

Learn more: Public Defender Information

Your Rights at Protests

If you are attending a protest, it's important to understand your rights to ensure safety and avoid legal issues.

  1. You have the right to protest in public spaces, including streets, sidewalks, and parks.
  2. Police can only break up protests if there is a clear and immediate threat to public safety.
  3. Filming the police is legal as long as you do NOT interfere with their duties.
  4. If you are arrested, stay calm, do not resist, and request a lawyer immediately.

More on protest rights: Know Your Rights: Protesters' Guide

Rights of Immigrants in the U.S.

With ongoing immigration crackdowns, it's critical to understand what rights immigrants (documented or undocumented) still have.

1. If ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) Stops You:

  • You do NOT have to answer any questions.

  • You do NOT have to open your door unless they have a warrant signed by a judge.

  • You do NOT have to sign anything without a lawyer present.

More on immigration rights: Immigration Rights Guide (NILC)

2. If you Are Undocumented:

  • You have the right to remain silent and refuse to share your immigration status.

  • You have the right to an attorney (though the government does not have to provide one).

  • Make a plan in case of detention. Talk to a lawyer and carry emergency contact info.

More on undocumented rights: What to Do If You're Undocumented (ACLU)

How you Can Help Undocumented People Right Now

With increased immigration enforcement, community support is more critical than ever. Here's how you can help:

  • Support Sancturary Spaces: businessess, churches, and community centers that protect immigrants.

  • Donate to legal aid groups that provide free representation to undocumented invidiuals.

  • Contact local representatives to push for humane immigration policies.

Organizations to Support: