Know Your Rights

"Boise has long been a community that comes together in common cause, and recommits, time and again, to the work of building a city that is safe to live, work and play in.

People of all backgrounds contribute every day to Boise’s success—friends and neighbors who learn in our schools, run small businesses that support our local economy, and bring new ideas and perspectives that help our city grow.

The City of Boise stands alongside all of our residents and, as mayor, I remain committed as ever to create a city where folks of all backgrounds feel safe and welcome."

— Mayor Lauren McLean

Aerial view of Capitol.

Community Resources

Please note: These are links to community organizations. The content within is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice from the City of Boise. For legal guidance, please consult an attorney.

Additionally, students and workers here under properly issued visas also are often subject to certain additional rules. Accordingly, they should also refer to the regulations and information provided by USCIS governing such visas.

ACLU Idaho

The ACLU of Idaho is actively engaged in protecting the rights of immigrants and refugees. The ACLU has created a crisis planning toolkit of resources for immigrant families to protect their assets and loved ones. If you or someone you know believe they were improperly arrested or detained by ICE, you may consider contacting the ACLU. The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Please consult a licensed immigration attorney for legal advice. Resources from ACLU Idaho include:


The Alliance of Idaho

The Alliance of Idaho provides helpful emergency preparedness toolkits, including information about how to prepare to exercise your rights in the event of an immigration emergency, as well as documentation needed in an immigration emergency.


Catholic Charities of Idaho

Catholic Charities of Idaho (CCI) is a Department of Justice (DOJ) recognized nonprofit organization offering low-cost immigration legal services to individuals and families across Idaho. Their mission is to provide accessible, trustworthy legal assistance to those eligible for immigration benefits, regardless of background or income level.


The Community Council of Idaho

The Community Council of Idaho is a rural-centered, multi-service nonprofit organization that works to improve the social and economic status of local communities through workforce preparation, education, cultural awareness, civil rights advocacy, and well-being services.


Idaho Legal Aid Services

The Idaho Legal Aid Services provides civil legal assistance to low-income individuals, seniors, and vulnerable communities throughout Idaho, helping to ensure everyone has access to the legal system regardless of their income.


Idaho Organization of Resource Councils

The mission of Idaho Organization of Resource Councils is to bring people together to build grassroots power through community organizing, leadership development and civic engagement, and take action to promote and protect health, safety, dignity and justice for frontline communities, including farmworkers, and directly impacted communities.


Neighbors United Boise

Neighbors United is a collaborative of individuals, community leaders, organizations and companies who strengthen refugee resettlement resources in the Treasure Valley.  The resources on this website include civic engagement information, public awareness about refugees, national resource guides, and ways to support organizations that support Idahoans with refugee backgrounds. There are also education, housing, health, employment and transportation resources available.


Mexican Consulate, Boise


PODER of Idaho

PODER of Idaho has compiled trusted information and services for Idaho’s Hispanic & Latino community. These resources include accessible legal aid and rights education; wage recovery, workers’ compensation, safety and farmworker support; confidential health, crisis, & safety support; and civic engagement & voting resources to register to vote, find your polling location, and join community action.

Immigrant Legal Resource Center

The Immigrant Legal Resource Center works with and educates immigrants, community organizations, and the legal sector to help build a democratic society that values diversity and the rights of all people. Resources include an immigration preparedness toolkit (English & Spanish).


National Immigration Law Center

The National Immigration Law Center has information about key issues impacting immigrant communities, as well as resources such as expert-curated guides, toolkits, policy briefs, and more.  These resources include:


ReadyNow! App

The ReadyNow! App is a secure one-click emergency alert system for people at risk of detention. Instantly notify trusted contacts and legal aid if you are faced with arrest and ensure your support network has the information they need to respond, fast.

Boise Police Department Policy

The Boise Police Department does not detain, arrest, or investigate individuals solely based on immigration status and may respond to requests from federal authorities to maintain public safety and order.

City of Boise Language Access Services

As our community continues to grow, the City of Boise recognizes the importance of a robust language access program for supporting the integration of new residents into our community.

Message Sent Successfully!

Message Failed To Send.

Send a Message to Mayor's Office

Thank you for your interest in the City of Boise Mayor's Office. Please complete the form to have your inquiry sent to the Mayor's Office staff.