LEWISTON – A workshop is being held in Lewiston Sunday to educate local immigrants about their legal rights, including those that protect them from racial profiling, hate crimes and FBI interrogations.

Scheduled to coincide with Many and One Coalition’s two weeks of “Community, Diversity and Justice,” the workshop has been organized by Maine Civil Liberties Union, the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project and the Center for the Prevention of Hate Violence.

It will be free and open to the public.

“Maine is home to people from all over the world, who have come here looking for freedom and liberty. Too often, they are met with suspicion and hostility,” said Zachary Heiden, staff attorney for the MCLU. “Part of the MCLU’s education mission is to make sure that non-citizens know that they can speak out against unfair treatment without fear of official retribution.”

Heiden will be one of the panelists to speak at Sunday’s workshop. He will be joined by Beth Stickney, executive director of the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project.

“The workshop will include information about the legal rights of immigrants under both federal and state law, so that immigrants will feel empowered to exercise their rights and will know where to turn for help when certain legal issues arise,” Stickney said.

Each panelist will speak briefly, then audience members will be encouraged to ask questions and discuss their concerns.

Translators and child care will be provided free of charge.



What: Workshop on legal rights for immigrants

When: Sunday, Jan. 23, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: B Street Community Center (corner of Bates and Birch streets)

For more information, call 774-5444