Az Gov. Hobbs launches ‘Know Your Rights’ site as concerns about ICE rise

As concern about ICE actions rises and the Trump administration pumps up anti-immigration rhetoric, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs announced Wednesday a new website outlining the rights of U.S. citizens who wish to protest or monitor law enforcement.

“During this time of heightened tension, Arizonans deserve to know their rights,” said Hobbs, a Democrat who is seeking a second term this year. “Now more than ever, it’s vital that we protect the rights found in our Constitution, and make our voices heard with calm and peaceful protest. I hope this is a valuable resource that helps us build communities where every Arizonan can feel secure and protect our families against any abuse of power. As long as I’m governor, I will always put the safety and security of Arizonans first.”

The website, knowyourrights.az.gov, includes information on your constitutional rights regarding peaceful protest, as well as what to do if you are stopped by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents or if ICE agents come to your business.

The site notes that anyone stopped by ICE has the right to ask if they are being detained, to remain silent, to speak to an attorney or refuse a search of their person.

The launch of the website comes on the heels of ICE operations in Minnesota that left two Minneapolis protesters, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, dead at the hands of some of the 3,000 federal agents deployed there, triggering massive protests across the nation, including in Tucson.

“Arizonans have constitutionally protected rights to make their voices heard and peacefully protest, observe law enforcement activity and the right to speak to an attorney if stopped by law enforcement,” said Department of Public Safety Director Jeff Glover said in a press release. DPS “respects and is prepared to protect those rights. Our public safety officials will remain laser-focused on keeping the public safe and ensuring every Arizonan has their right to peaceful protest respected.”