The Consul General of Mexico in Los Angeles, Carlos González Gutiérrez, recently shared a significant video on his personal account on platform X (@carlos_glezgtez). This video targets the Mexican community residing in the United States .
In the video, renowned Mexican actor Demián Bichir explains to “paisanos” how to navigate interactions with U.S. immigration authorities.
“Paisana, paisano, if you encounter immigration authorities, remember that you have rights, regardless of your immigration status,” Bichir emphasizes at the beginning of his message.
The actor outlines four critical recommendations for individuals facing immigration detentions:
1. Remain silent and request to speak with a lawyer.
2. Do not sign any document without understanding its contents.
3. You have the right to contact your consulate or have the authorities notify your arrest to them.
4. Do not discuss your immigration status with anyone, except your lawyer.
Bichir further encourages those in need of guidance or assistance to reach out to the Information and Assistance Center for Mexican Nationals (CIAM) at 520-623-7874.
“Remember: knowing your rights is your best tool. You are not alone; CIAM and your consulate are here to assist you,” concludes Demián Bichir in his message.
Meanwhile, the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs has announced that in case of an emergency, individuals can contact the Mexican Consulate General in Los Angeles via the following avenues:
Emergency Consular Protection Number: 213-219-0175
Social media and email:
Email: [email protected]
X: (@ConsulMexLan)
Facebook and Instagram: (@ConsuladoGeneral.Mx.LA)
In recent years, the Mexican community in the United States has faced increased immigration enforcement . This surge is largely attributed to the policies enacted by former President Donald Trump aimed at “protecting” the United States, often at the expense of migrant individuals.
Some of these policies include:
- Mobilization of the U.S. military: An executive order authorized the deployment of troops at the border to halt migration movements.
- Mandatory detention and expanded powers: An executive order mandates the incarceration of anyone suspected of violating federal or state laws, holding them until they are expelled from U.S. territory.
- Increased police authority: Another executive directive empowers state and local police to undertake immigration enforcement tasks, including investigating and detaining foreign nationals within legal limits.
- Defunding sanctuary jurisdictions: Federal funding has been revoked for jurisdictions that refuse to comply with immigration directives.
The adjustments in U.S. government policies and more frequent enforcement operations across various states have fostered anxiety among Mexican residents and workers .
In response to this challenging scenario, Mexican consulates and human rights organizations have stepped up their information and guidance campaigns . They aim to provide the community with tools to confront immigration operations, prevent abuses, and ensure their rights are respected.