'Do what you can where you are with what you have.' T Roosevelt.
MAGA claims a mandate they do not have. trump did not get a simple majority of the popular vote, more than half the electorate voted against him. [https://www.thenation.com/article/politics/donald-trump-vote-margin-narrowed/]
Resisting MAGA encourages all of us to speak up and counter the MAGA worldview each and every time they express their anger or fear. If nobody questions them they will feel emboldened. If they see resistance at every turn, they will shrink away.
I recommend that the model we take is that every action of trump's administration will be bad for Americans. Each action likely will be either an actual crime or counter to the Constitution. In case any acts slip through his filter that actually help people we can embrace and support those.
The overriding state of MAGA supporters is that of fear. They are afraid of just about everything. They feel they cannot control anything and that they will be harmed.
Their reaction to their fear is violence and anger.
Our specific job in Resisting their emotions and acts depends on the situation.
When a MAGAT expresses a feeling about something, our job is resist that emotion and to counter that feeling in them. I find that logic and facts do not serve to sway their feelings.
I suggest we acknowledge their feelings and disagree with their feeling. 'I hear that you think immigrants are taking our jobs and preventing us from living well.' I think you are wrong - Immigrants do not in fact take our jobs.'
If they persist in their opinion, then ask them for some evidence or facts which prove their case. When they are unable to offer any such proof, then our job is to suggest that their feeling is just their opinion.
I suggest that legislative debates and/or hearings in Congress focus on the MAGAT difficulty or inability to offer proof or facts to make their case.
For undocumented immigrants who may face deportation, here are some suggestions.
** Acknowledge that this is a hard time for you. Relocate now and change your electronic identifiers, use cash instead of credit cards, do not use cell phones and generally make yourself harder to find. Perhaps the elections in 2026 will provide a changed picture.
** Resist the activity, do not voluntarily go with them. Force them to use force to complete the arrest.
** Get an attorney ASAP. Further steps are listed below.
** Film and document any activity by ICE or their counterparts, then be sure the video goes to the press and social media.
** I recommend that we as the resistance picket and film any detention center for the duration of the sweeps. We should look for any violent and/or cruel activities for transmission to the mainstream media and social media.
'Being an undocumented resident in the U.S. can be very stressful, and avoiding deportation requires understanding your legal options and rights. While I can provide general information, it's important to consult with an immigration lawyer who can give you advice tailored to your specific situation. However, here are some strategies and things to consider:
1. Know Your Rights
Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status if you're stopped by immigration authorities or police.
Right to an Attorney: If you're detained or face removal proceedings, you have the right to an attorney, but you will have to pay for one unless you qualify for legal aid.
Due Process: You are entitled to a hearing before an immigration judge before being deported.
2. Stay Informed on Legal Changes
Immigration laws in the U.S. can change frequently, so it's crucial to stay updated on potential reforms or executive actions that could provide relief to undocumented individuals. For example:
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): If you arrived in the U.S. as a child, you may qualify for DACA, which provides temporary relief from deportation and work authorization.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS): If you're from a country that has been designated for TPS due to war, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions, you may be able to stay in the U.S. temporarily.
Family-based Immigration: If you have family members who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, they may be able to sponsor you for a green card.
3. Seek Relief Through Immigration Relief Programs
Asylum: If you fear persecution in your home country, you may be eligible to apply for asylum in the U.S. However, you need to apply within one year of arrival unless you qualify for an exception.
U-Visa (for victims of crime): If you’ve been a victim of certain crimes and cooperated with law enforcement, you may be eligible for a U-Visa, which grants legal status and the ability to work.
T-Visa (for trafficking victims): Similar to the U-Visa, this applies to those who have been victims of human trafficking.
4. Stay Low Profile
While it’s not a legal strategy, some undocumented individuals try to stay under the radar by avoiding situations that may bring them into contact with immigration enforcement. This could mean avoiding criminal activities, staying away from ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) operations, and being cautious about interactions that might expose your status.
5. Possible Defence in Immigration Court
There are a number of possible defences that might allow you to stay in the U.S., including:
Cancellation of Removal: If you’ve lived in the U.S. for a certain number of years, you have good moral character, and your removal would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member, you may be eligible for this form of relief.
Adjustment of Status: If you are eligible to become a lawful permanent resident through family or employment, you may be able to apply for a green card even if you're undocumented.
6. Work with an Immigration Lawyer
Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can be one of the most crucial steps you take. An attorney can help you:
Assess your eligibility for relief from deportation
Guide you through the process of applying for asylum, TPS, or other forms of relief
Represent you in immigration court
Help you understand the complexities of your situation and advise you on your best course of action
7. Consider Local and State Protections
Some states and cities have local ordinances or laws that protect undocumented immigrants from deportation, at least in certain circumstances. "Sanctuary cities" or places with "welcoming policies" may limit local law enforcement's cooperation with ICE. You can learn more about where you live to see if there are specific protections or resources available in your area.
8. Stay Away from Fraudulent Immigration Schemes
Be cautious of people who promise to "fix" your immigration status for a fee. Many fraudsters prey on undocumented immigrants, promising to help them avoid deportation or gain legal status. Only a licensed immigration lawyer can provide reliable, legal assistance.
9. If Detained, Know How to Respond
If you are detained by ICE or another immigration authority:
Remain calm and assert your right to an attorney.
Do not sign any documents without understanding what they mean.
Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to explore your options for release and fighting deportation.
Ultimately, while avoiding deportation might seem daunting, understanding your rights, exploring all available legal avenues, and seeking expert advice from a lawyer are key steps you can take.'
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