Superintendent Peter Dart and Town Manager Ryan Aylesworth of Mansfield notified their residents on Jan. 27 about undocumented policies. In a letter given to families of the schools, they released details on how they’re planning to ensure a safe environment for students.
The letter also urges families to prepare a Family Preparedness Plan. This plan advises families on what to do if put in a situation where you are detained or deported. There are templates included, one of which helps with filling out a Child Care Plan, which advises parents to compile a file of important documents, update the schools on any emergency contacts and file a Standby Guardian Designation Form. This form gives power to the person in charge of your child to make decisions on their behalf. The Child Care Plan also recommends you distribute a copy of your A-number to any loved ones in case of an emergency. Connecticut does not have any U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities, so giving this information can help others locate someone.
Also included in the Family Preparedness Plan is a guide on how to hire a licensed attorney and where to find them. Additional resources are given on how to verify if the attorney is licensed and a list of Connecticut Executive Order for Immigration Review/ Board of immigration Appeals accredited representatives is also attached.
For low-income families, free legal assistance in civil matters is offered. Resources are provided to get in touch with legal service programs depending on the county. The American Immigration Lawyers Association website is also linked for those who need assistance for hiring a private attorney.
A ‘Know Your Rights’ section follows. It explains what to do if ICE shows up at your door, if you are approached by ICE or if they ever arrest you.
The final part enclosed in the Family Preparedness Plan is a list of multiple Connecticut resources for additional information.
The policy regarding undocumented immigrants in Mansfield was brought to light in the letter as a reminder of the town’s stance on immigration. The policy, created in 2017, reassures undocumented residents that they are free to use public services without fearing that they will be asked about their status and denied services. The policy also declares that no Mansfield official, employee or agent can disclose the immigration status of a resident unless they are required to do so by law.
The letter finishes by stating that the Department of Homeland Security, including ICE and Customs and Border Protection, are prohibited from entering Mansfield public schools. Only a judicial (criminal) warrant or a subpoena signed by a judge will grant them access to enter.
Further questions can be directed to the Mansfield district and town leaders.