Know Your Rights Town Hall
In response to recent ICE raids and a shifting political climate, Reel Works hosted Know Your Rights, a Brooklyn town hall designed to give young people and their families the tools to protect themselves. Led by attorneys from The Kuba Law Firm, P.C., the panel broke down immigration law with clarity and urgency. When youth know their rights, they build power and community.
Legal Insight Rooted in Experience
The town hall was led by attorneys Lance and Luke Kuba, along with Ivan Baca of The Kuba Law Firm, P.C., a family-run practice with over 60 years of experience in immigration law. The speakers provided historical context and clarified complex legal processes, including U-visas, family court timelines, and the constitutional protections afforded to all, regardless of immigration status.
Understanding Rights in Daily Life
The panelists also shared practical strategies for staying safe and informed. Students left with the confidence to advocate for themselves and their families. Vanessa Cruz said:
“Reel Works’ Town Hall was informative and reassuring. In an uncertain time, it provided a clear understanding of my constitutional rights and how to respond if I’m ever confronted by law enforcement. The legal aid organizations were kind, welcoming, and deeply knowledgeable about immigration law. I left with a renewed sense of belonging and confidence, knowing that support is available—for me and for others in my community.”
— Vanessa Cruz, Dual Language Doc Lab Alumna, Youth Ambassador
Education as Advocacy
Patrick Quinn, [City University of New York – CUNY MediaMKRS Internship Coordinator] emphasized the unique challenges undocumented students face and the institutional resources available to help them succeed. His message was clear: advocacy starts with access to trustworthy information, and young people are at the heart of lasting change.
Moving Forward
Know Your Rights wasn’t just about legal protection—it was about civic participation, community care, and the power of shared knowledge. In an era of disinformation and rapidly changing policy, staying informed is essential.
At Reel Works, we remain committed to creating safe, informative spaces where young people can ask hard questions, gain real answers, and grow into leaders.
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