Know Your Rights: Immigration & Refugee Protections in Orange County

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Overview: Your Rights Under Local Civil Rights Ordinances

We are dedicated to providing clear, factual information on immigration and refugee rights. This page outlines the legal protections available to all individuals—including those under the Orange County Civil Rights and Non-discrimination Ordinances—and explains how these rights support fair treatment in civic and public services. You’ll find practical guidance on navigating interactions with government agencies, understanding your rights in legal or administrative proceedings, and accessing support in times of uncertainty.

Key Rights & Protections

  • Right to Fair Treatment: Every individual, regardless of immigration status, is entitled to protection from discrimination.
  • Right to Access Public Services: Local ordinances guarantee that essential services—such as healthcare, education, and government programs—are available without bias.
  • Right to Due Process: You have the right to clear, accessible information and fair treatment in any legal or administrative process.

How to Navigate Government Services & Legal Processes

  • Document Your Experience: Keep detailed records of incidents. Note the date, time, location, individuals involved, and a clear description of what happened. Documentation can be critical if legal support is needed.
  • Navigating Legal and Administrative Processes: Understand your steps when interacting with government or legal agencies. Important actions include:
    • Communicate Effectively: Ask concise questions and request written explanations.
    • Follow Procedures: Familiarize yourself with complaint and hearing processes.
    • Keep Records: Save copies of all communications and documents.
  • Accessing Legal Assistance: Refer to our legal assistance resources page or contact a qualified legal professional for personalized support.

Additional Resources

Informational Materials

Videos

Community Partners

Our network of community partners is dedicated to safeguarding your rights and ensuring you have access to the support you need. These organizations collaborate with local agencies to provide assistance, advocacy, and outreach.

El Centro Hispano

  • Purpose: The largest Latino-led and Latino-serving organization in North Carolina, supporting Hispanic/Latino/Latinx communities across Durham, Wake, and Orange counties.
  • Contact: (919) 945-0132 or visit elcentronc.org

Refugee Support Center

  • Purpose: Volunteer-based organization helping North Carolina refugees access services, build skills, and transition to self-sufficiency.
  • Contact: (919) 423-1478 or visit refugeesupportcenter.org

Refugee Community Partnership

  • Purpose: Builds systems to connect people to needed resources and mobilize institutions to remove access barriers.
  • Contact: (919) 590-5910 or email info@refugeecommunitypartnership.org