By: Richard L. Smith
Bloomfield officials have released an expanded list of immigrant rights resources aimed at providing residents with clear, verified information regarding federal immigration activity and available legal support.
The Township has published a Community FAQ addressing questions about Bloomfield’s role in immigration-related matters, local law enforcement practices, and coordination with state partners. 
Officials said the goal is to provide accurate guidance in one centralized location and reduce confusion during a time of heightened concern.
The resource page also links to statewide tools, including New Jersey’s Know Your Rights Information Hub at nj.gov/knowyourrights.
The site offers multilingual guidance explaining constitutional protections during interactions with federal immigration agents.
In addition, the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General has launched an ICE Activity Reporting Portal at njoag.gov/portal.
The online form allows residents to report potential misconduct or civil rights concerns related to immigration enforcement.
Submissions may include written accounts, photos, or videos and are available in multiple languages.
The New Jersey Office of New Americans is also highlighted as a key state resource.
The office provides outreach, education, and legal referrals, including free legal services for income-eligible residents facing deportation. Residents may call (732) 572-9100 ext. 8782 for non-detained immigration matters or 1-888-894-0612 for detention-related inquiries.
Bloomfield Mayor Jenny Mundell said the Township is responding directly to concerns raised by residents at recent public meetings.
“We’ve heard clearly from residents at town halls and council meetings that they want reliable information and reassurance during a time of uncertainty,” Mayor Mundell said.
“Sharing this resource is part of our commitment to keep people informed, to be honest about what local government can and cannot do, and to use every tool within our authority to help residents feel safe and supported. Bloomfield remains a Fair and Welcoming Community, and we will continue working with our partners at all levels of government to advance protections for our residents while leading with compassion, transparency, and respect for every resident.”
The Township’s page also directs residents to several local nonprofit and legal organizations offering immigration-related services:
• Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark provides low-cost and pro bono legal assistance for asylum, removal defense, and family petitions, along with refugee social services.
• American Friends Service Committee offers free and low-cost legal representation for immigrants in detention or facing deportation.
• El Centro Hispanoamericano provides low-cost immigration assistance.
• La Casa de Don Pedro assists with immigration filings, DACA applications, naturalization, employment authorization, and representation before the Board of Immigration Appeals.
• NJ Citizen Action focuses on financial justice advocacy for low-income and immigrant families.
• Rutgers-Newark Immigrant Rights Clinic handles cases involving New Jersey residents currently in removal proceedings.
• DIRE – Deportation & Immigration Response Equipo offers low-cost legal services, court accompaniment, and community-based support for families facing immigration or detention crises.
The Township also directs residents to national and state-level Know Your Rights toolkits, including resources from the ACLU.
Officials say the Immigrant Rights Resources page will continue to be updated as new guidance and protections are announced at the state level.