Virginia Please describes being stopped at a U.S. airport and questioned about her immigration status despite being a citizen, then shares ACLU advice on what to do when law enforcement asks about immigration.
I just recently traveled to the Philippines, and when I got back, I kind of anticipated that something wrong was going to happen. When I arrived, I got through the immigration and customs with ease, and I even got my luggage very quickly until I was on my way to the final exit. I was stopped by a man who asked for my passport, and I could see there was another Asian young woman who was being interrogated in front of me. This never happens ever. I mean, it was the final exit, but I am a US citizen, so the encounter was quick, but nevertheless, it was very nerve-wracking to say the least. After all, I am still an immigrant. I'm Virginia Please, and I'm here to tell you that regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the Constitution. But what if law enforcement asks about your immigration status, just like what happened to me? Here's how to reduce the risk to yourself according to ACLU, or the American Civil Liberties Union.
