History of Know Your Rights Campaigns
How immigrant communities have organized to educate each other about legal rights during enforcement encounters, from the 1980s sanctuary movement to today.
Flavor Profile
You tend toward safer approaches while occasionally stepping outside comfort zones
You draw on both hope and frustration depending on the situation
You often gravitate toward visible roles and public-facing work
You lean toward lighter involvement while occasionally going deeper
Know Your Rights (KYR) campaigns have been a cornerstone of immigrant defense organizing for decades. Understanding this history helps us build on what works.
Evolution of KYR Work
- 1980s: Sanctuary movement developed early KYR materials for Central American refugees
- 1990s-2000s: Post-IIRIRA enforcement expansion drove need for broader community education
- 2017-present: Mass KYR trainings in response to expanded enforcement
Key Principles
Effective KYR work has always emphasized:
- Plain language: Legal concepts explained in accessible terms
- Multiple formats: Cards, trainings, videos, door-to-door outreach
- Community trainers: Training community members to train others
- Updated information: Keeping pace with changing policies and tactics
Impact
Research shows that KYR education helps people:
- Assert their constitutional rights during encounters
- Make informed decisions about opening doors, signing documents
- Support others who may be targeted
- Feel less isolated and afraid
Current Landscape
Multiple organizations in Baltimore offer KYR trainings. Coordinating these efforts and ensuring consistent, accurate information remains an ongoing challenge.
Contribute to an Emergency Response Fund
Support funds that provide immediate assistance to families affected by immigration enforcement, including bond, travel, and emergency housing.
Volunteer at a Citizenship Workshop
Help eligible immigrants complete naturalization applications at free community workshops that provide assistance and legal screening.
Get Trained as an Accompanier
Learn to accompany immigrants to ICE check-ins, court hearings, or other appointments where a supportive presence can make a difference.