Communities across Alabama are reeling after a wave of federal immigration raids this week led to the detention of dozens of people at multiple Mexican restaurants. According to the Alabama Political Reporter, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out coordinated arrests on Tuesday, July 15, as part of what officials say is a years-long investigation into the businesses’ ownership and operations.
But now, many are asking: Did ICE go too far?
Zaira Solano, a Birmingham-based immigration attorney and founder of the Solano Immigration Law Firm, is one of several legal experts speaking out. She says she’s seen this before—and it’s not always what it seems.
Solano says these types of operations often end up sweeping up people who aren’t accused of criminal wrongdoing. “In many cases, people are picked up by ICE simply because they’re undocumented, even when they’re already in the middle of applying for legal status,” she explained, as reported by WBRC News.
To be clear, Solano says she’s not claiming that’s exactly what happened during Tuesday’s raids. But based on her experience with similar ICE actions, she believes it’s a strong possibility.
And for her, one message is critical: Know your rights.
“The protections of the U.S. Constitution apply to everyone, regardless of immigration status,” Solano emphasized. That means you have the right to remain silent and the right not to talk to officers unless they properly identify themselves.
“You don’t need to tell ICE where you were born, how you entered the country, or anything beyond confirming your identity,” she said. “If they come to your home, you have the right not to open the door. And if you do, make sure they show a warrant that includes your correct name and is signed by a judge.”
Solano also pushed back against the idea that being undocumented is a crime. “Being undocumented doesn’t make someone a criminal,” she said. “And helping a neighbor—giving someone a ride or sharing a meal—isn’t illegal either.”
According to her, it only crosses into illegal territory if someone is actively trying to hide an undocumented person from the authorities.
Meanwhile, Birmingham Migra Watch, a group under the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice, released a statement condemning the ICE raids. They argue that actions like these create fear in immigrant communities and risk tearing families apart without cause.
“This kind of enforcement doesn’t just impact those taken into custody—it sends a shockwave of fear through entire neighborhoods,” the group stated.
As the legal dust settles, Solano urges calm and encourages immigrants—and their allies—to remain calm, stay informed, and seek legal advice when needed.
“This isn’t just about immigration law,” she added. “It’s about basic rights, dignity, and keeping families together.”