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The role of the police in the United States is to respect, protect, and uphold the civil rights of individuals and communities across the country. The police enforce local, state, and federal laws. If you have an emergency, you may need to call 9-1-1 to ask for assistance.
Like firefighters and ambulances, the police may arrive to assist you. You may also encounter the police in a variety of situations in your communities such as when they stop drivers for traffic violations. Their job is to ensure public safety. To do that, they may sometimes need to talk to you or ask you questions.
If you encounter police in public or are stopped by the police while driving, here are some tips to stay safe. Appropriate ways to interact with the police:
Remember: It’s okay to say you don’t understand. You have a legal right to an interpreter.
Here is a card you can carry to assist you in interacting with the police. Make sure to ASK FIRST and RECEIVE PERMISSION before reaching for this card.
REFUGEE-POLICE INTERACTION CARD
I am a resettled refugee. I am in the United States legally.
I speak _____________. I need an interpreter.
Please call __________.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS:
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With short videos and interactive lessons, you can learn about a wide range of pre- and post-arrival resettlement topics like traveling to the U.S., housing, and looking for a job.
The content on this website is developed by the Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE), is in the public domain, and may be reproduced. The contents of this website were developed under an agreement financed by the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, United States Department of State, but do not necessarily represent the policy of that agency and should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.
