Know Your Rights in a Disaster

Written By Shej Shahriar

Myths vs Facts, Wildfire Edition

Myth:

Only citizens can access emergency shelters and disaster relief services.

Fact:

Emergency services, shelters, and disaster relief resources are available to everyone, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. FEMA and local services cannot deny assistance based on your legal status.

Myth:

During a wildfire, emergency updates and assistance will only be available in English.

Fact:

Emergency services are required to provide information in multiple languages, including Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and other commonly spoken languages in Los Angeles. Translation and interpretation services are often available at shelters and hotlines.

Myth:

Shelters can turn you away based on your race, religion, or immigration status.

Fact:

Discrimination is illegal in emergency shelters and disaster relief services. Shelters cannot deny you access based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or immigration status.

Myth:

Low-income communities can’t access free wildfire recovery resources.

Fact:

Free and low-cost recovery resources, such as food, clothing, and housing assistance, are available to everyone, regardless of income level. Local organizations often work with government agencies to prioritize vulnerable communities.

Myth:

Reporting hate incidents during a disaster won’t be taken seriously.

Fact:

Hate incidents and crimes are always taken seriously, even during disasters. You can report them to law enforcement or civil rights organizations like CAIR, even while seeking disaster relief.

Myth:

Undocumented workers will lose their jobs if they evacuate or miss work due to a wildfire.

Fact:

California law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers for complying with mandatory evacuation orders. If you face retaliation, you may be eligible for legal assistance through organizations like the California Labor Commissioner’s Office.

Myth:

Using government disaster assistance programs could affect your immigration status or result in deportation.

Fact:

Accessing disaster relief, including FEMA aid, emergency shelter, or food assistance, does not affect your immigration status and is not considered a "public charge" under U.S. immigration laws.

Myth:

Firefighters and first responders cannot assist undocumented individuals.

Fact:

Firefighters, EMTs, and other emergency responders are committed to saving lives without discrimination. Your immigration status is irrelevant during emergencies, and they should not report it to authorities.

Resources:

Shej Shahriar
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