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This is a collection of resources and strategies to help AAC users, families, and advocates prepare for immigration enforcement. It is not an exhaustive list. Do you have a resource or strategy that we missed? Leave a comment to share!
AAC and Immigration Enforcement
Immigration enforcement in the United States has grown more intense. Raids and deportations are creating fear and uncertainty for many families and communities. These encounters often happen without warning, leaving little time to prepare.
For people who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), the stakes are even higher. In moments of crisis, communication barriers can lead to
confusion,
missed chances to assert legal rights,
and greater vulnerability.
AAC can be a lifeline — helping people share their needs and assert their rights. It can also give families and communities a way to stay connected and supported during times of upheaval.
The resources and strategies below provide practical ways to help AAC users, families, and advocates prepare for immigration enforcement. As well as to manage uncertainty.
Legal and Advocacy Supports
Knowing your rights is essential during immigration enforcement. These resources provide clear guidance for families and advocates:
Red Cards (Immigrant Legal Resource Center): Reds cards are designed to help people, especially immigrants, understand and assert their rights when encountering law enforcement or immigration officials. Red Cards are available to print in over 50 languages. To learn more about how to effectively use Red Cards, view this illustrated guide (PDF).
Know Your Rights (WA Immigrant Solidarity Network): These flyers explain what to do if you have an encounter and/or witness an encounter with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). The flyers are available in over 20 languages.
Seattle Immigration Legal Defense Resources: This webpage provides various resources for those working to support immigrant and refugee communities in Seattle and Washington state.
Family Separation Rapid Response Team (WA DCYF): This webpage provides various community resources and supports, including
an immigrant safety plan,
school guidance,
legal supports,
deportation preparation,
and more.
AAC Tools and Strategies
When every moment counts, having AAC supports ready can make a big difference. This section includes essential resources and practical tips for both lite-tech and high-tech AAC. There are examples to guide families and advocates in urgent situations.
Pre-Made Communication Boards
Preparedness Strategies for AAC
AAC and Immigration Raids Preparedness (VocesAAC Blog) by Maria DeLeon MS CCC-SLP
Ideas for Customizing Lite-Tech and High-Tech AAC (inspired by VocesAAC Blog Post)
1. Add critical vocabulary related to immigration and safety
People/Agencies: ICE, immigration officer, lawyer, advocate
Actions: deportation, detention, search, raid
Personal info: country of origin, passport, visa, green card
Family terms: mom, dad, sibling names
Phrases: “I want to speak to my lawyer,” “I do not consent to a search,” “Please call my emergency contact”
2. Create an emergency page or folder with essential details
Phone numbers: emergency contact, lawyer, interpreter
Communication preferences: “I use AAC,” “I need extra time to respond”
Medical info: medication list, allergies, doctor’s name
Scripts for emergencies:
“Please call [name] at [number].”
“I need my medication.”
“I communicate using this device.”
3. Include comfort items by programming likes and dislikes
Likes: favorite food, music, activities (e.g., “I like soft music,” “I like warm blankets”)
Dislikes: loud noises, certain foods, unfamiliar touch (e.g., “I don’t like loud voices,” “I don’t eat pork”)
Scripts for self-advocacy:
“I feel scared. Can I have my comfort item?”
“I need a quiet space.”
4. Support multilingual communication
Ensure access to key phrases in English + home language (e.g., Spanish, Mandarin, etc.):
For lite-tech AAC: Add these phrases to printed or laminated communication boards in multiple languages.
For high-tech AAC: Program these phrases into devices for quick access in both languages.
Examples:
“Call my family” / “Llame a mi familia”
“I need help” / “Necesito ayuda”
“I want a lawyer” / “Quiero un abogado”
Consider including symbols to support comprehension and expression across languages.
5. Collaborate with families and caregivers
Emergency priorities: Who should be contacted first?
Cultural considerations: Preferred language, customs, religious needs
Additional phrases: “I need my glasses,” “I need my AAC device,” “I need water”
Community-specific needs: Local advocacy groups to contact, safe spaces
Emotional Support & Literacy
Stories can bring comfort and connection during hard times. For families and communities facing separation or fear of deportation, books offer a gentle way to start conversations about resilience, love, and staying connected. Even when circumstances keep people apart.
Tengo Miedo (I’m Scared) by Marlene Huerta (Marly’s Libros)
Share these resources widely and advocate for AAC inclusion in emergency planning. Together, we can ensure every voice is heard — even in the most challenging circumstances.
