Contacting Your Representative
If you or someone in your family is detained by ICE, your elected officials can help. Your Representative and Senators work for you, and their offices have the authority to call ICE, ask questions, and advocate for fair treatment.
When to Contact Your Representative:
  • Someone in your family was detained by ICE
  • You need help finding where someone is being held
  • You believe someone's rights were violated
  • You need help understanding what happens next
How to Find Your Representatives:
  • U.S. Representative: Go to www.house.gov and enter your ZIP code
  • U.S. Senators: Go to www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm
What Information to Have Ready:
Before you call, gather the following information:
  • Your name and phone number
  • The detained person's full legal name
  • Their date of birth
  • Their A-number, if available
  • When and where they were detained
  • Which detention center they are in, if known
How to Contact Them:
Call Their Office (Most Effective for Urgent Matters):
  • Call your Representative's local district office, not the Washington, D.C. office
  • Ask to speak to the caseworker who handles immigration matters
  • State clearly: "I am your constituent and I need help with an immigration detention case"
Send an Email:
  • Go to their website
  • Look for "Get Help" or "Constituent Services"
  • Select "Immigration" from the options
  • Include all relevant information in your message
What to Say:
Be direct and provide the necessary details:
"My name is [your name]. I live in [your city]. I am contacting you because my [relationship] was detained by ICE on [date] in [city]. Their name is [name] and their date of birth is [date]. I need your office to inquire about their location, ensure they are safe, and help them access legal counsel. You can reach me at [your phone number]."
What Your Representative Can Do:
  • Contact ICE and request information about the detained person
  • Determine where they are being held
  • Ensure they are being treated fairly
  • Facilitate communication between the detained person and their family
  • Connect you with legal resources
Important Notes:
  • Your Representative cannot release someone from detention, but they can advocate and inquire on your behalf
  • Write down the name of the staff person you speak with
  • If you do not hear back within two to three business days, follow up
  • You can and should contact your Representative and both Senators
Asking for help is your right. Your elected officials are there to serve you.