Overview

You are attending immigration court to show solidarity with Afghan wartime allies—not to protest, disrupt, or interfere. This guidance ensures your presence is respectful, lawful, and effective.

✅ What You Can Do

• Attend public immigration court hearings. Most non-detained hearings are open to the public, and you are legally allowed to observe them.
  

• Stand or sit quietly in designated public areas. Before or after the hearing, your presence in lobbies, sidewalks, and other non-secure areas is generally protected under the First Amendment.
  

• Wear items that express support (within limits). Veteran hats, ribbons, or shirts that say “I Stand With Our Allies” are typically allowed outside the courtroom and sometimes inside, if not disruptive.
  

• Be a quiet witness. Your physical presence—uniformed or not—can send a powerful message without saying a word.
  

• Accompany the Afghan ally to and from court (if invited). This is allowed as long as you do not interfere with court personnel or proceedings.

🚫 What You Cannot Do

• ❌ Do not bring signs, banners, or protest materials inside the courthouse. These are not allowed and may result in removal.
  
  

• ❌ Do not record, photograph, or livestream inside the courthouse. It is a federal offense.
  
  

• ❌ Do not speak out during proceedings. Even if you disagree with what is said in court, any outburst may be seen as disruptive and harmful to the Afghan’s case.
  
  

• ❌ Do not engage with ICE officers. Do not confront, film, or follow officers. Do not attempt to interfere with any arrest.
  
  

• ❌ Do not wear military uniforms unless you are on active duty. This avoids confusion over impersonation laws. Civilian veteran attire is preferable.
  

⚠️ Gray Areas – Use Caution

• Outside the courthouse: You may hold signs, speak to media, or organize brief remarks—but you must remain on public property and not block entrances or walkways.
  

• Interaction with allies or family: Be mindful of their privacy and safety. Do not post identifying photos or details without explicit consent.
  

• If ICE approaches someone you’re escorting: Stay calm. Do not interfere. If possible, quietly document the encounter afterward and connect the individual with legal counsel.
  

🛡 If You Are Questioned or Asked to Leave

• Comply respectfully. You have a right to observe, but not to disrupt. If asked to step back or leave, do so calmly and notify AfghanEvac staff.

• You may ask: “Am I being detained, or am I free to go?” But do not argue.
  

📋 Best Practices

• Arrive early. Give yourself time to get through security.
  

• Bring ID. Most federal buildings require it.
  

• Know who you’re supporting. Be familiar with the person’s name, attorney (if any), and case time.
  

• Avoid political apparel. Keep the focus on solidarity and legality.
  

• Go in pairs or groups. Safety and clarity are better in numbers.
  

📄 Sample Language for Escorts to Use if Asked:

“I’m here as a U.S. veteran to quietly observe these proceedings and stand in support of Afghan allies who served with our forces. I understand and respect the rules of the court.”