Empowering Immigrant Mothers
Are you an immigrant mother who has questions about your rights?
We understand that finding information to support you throughout your pregnancy and after childbirth can be difficult.
That's why we've created this webpage, specifically for individuals like you. Here, you'll find valuable information about your legal rights and readily available resources for your specific situation.
Know Your Rights If You Interact with I.C.E.
Recent reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) raids have raised concerns and may cause fear in undocumented and migrant communities. During these stressful times it is important to stay informed about your rights.
Every individual in the United States, regardless of immigration status, has rights according to the Constitution.
The Immigration Legal Resource Center has created printable cards (as seen on the left) as a tool to help people understand and exercise their rights during interactions with law enforcement.
To print or download your own card press below.
Do's and Don'ts
1. You have the right to remain silent.
2. You have the right to speak to an attorney.
3. Remain calm and respectful.
4. Present law enforcement officers with constitutional rights card (presented above).
1. Do not open your door. Immigration officers must have a warrant signed by a judge or your consent before entering a home.
2. Do not present any false documents.
3. Do not sign any documents given to you before consulting a lawyer.
Do's
Don'ts
In the case that you or someone you know if affected by an I.C.E. raid, knowing what to do, and what to not do, can protect you. This guide can help you understand and exercise your rights.
Community Safety Alerts:
People Over Papers is a resource where community members can anonymously report ICE sightings. Please note that the reports are not confirmed but are meant to support and protect each other.
ConsulApp is a mobile application to assist immigrants connect with their home country's consulate. They can help users stay informed about their rights and access emergency assistance if needed.
To learn more about your rights if you detained by I.C.E. and other commonly asked questions please visit:
Medi-Cal Expansion for Undocumented Immigrants
Good News! The Recent Medi-Cal Expansion May Qualify You for Full-Scope Benefits
Over the past couple of years, California has taken measures to increase Medi-Cal coverage to undocumented immigrants. This means that beginning January 2024, all eligible* undocumented immigrants may enroll in full-scope benefits. Please not that applying or using Medi-Cal does not affect immigration status.
*must meet income requirements
To check eligiblity requirements & to get assistance enrolling in Medi-Cal please press below.
Emergency Medi-Cal: Insurance for Undocumented Women
Emergency Medi-Cal offers limited healthcare to eligible undocumented immigrants during a critical condition. Pregnant women between the ages of 26-49 years old are eligible to apply for emergency Medi-Cal before applying for full scope Medi-Cal in January 2024.
In California, pregnancy may qualify migrant women to receive emergency Medi-Cal if income requirements are met.
Rights in the Workplace
Knowing your rights in the workplace, especially during pregnancy, is an important step toward protecting yourself.
1
Accommodations
Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees. For example, having employee work within a reasonable distance from a restroom.
2
Pregnancy Leave
Employers must provide employees with pregnancy disability leave and must grant the employee the same work position upon return.
3
Harassment
Employers cannot harass or discriminate against pregnant employees.
For more detailed information of your rights refer to this infographic.
Free & Low-Cost
Legal Assistance
Do you still have specific questions that have not been addressed? Below are some free and low-cost legal resources to provide guidance and support.
The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights in Los Angeles (CHIRLA)
provides free legal services. For direct contact, call their immigrant assistance hotline at:
+1 (888) 624-4752
Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
The Immigration Law Help is a directory that helps connect low-income immigrants to legal help. Enter your zip code and it will generate a list of legal resources local to you.