
Preparedness before Crisis
StoryShield, from Their Story is Our Story, is a program that trains immigrant families to create firsthand, phone-based video stories that highlight their community contributions and ties. If you are detained or deported, your story can be used to raise public awareness and rally community support.
The Reality
What families are facing:
- Detention and deportation can happen suddenly
- When a crisis happens, there is little time to explain your story
- Too often, stories are told about families — not by families
- Fear and misinformation can isolate families when support is most needed
The Insight
Stories can be protective:
- When stories exist before a crisis, communities can respond faster and with more credibility
- First-hand narratives humanize families beyond headlines
- Prepared materials reduce delay when urgent advocacy is needed
- Personal stories build long-term understanding and support
The Offer
What this program gives families:
- Safety: Support to create stories without putting families at risk
- Control: Families decide what is shared, how, and when — always
- Support: A trusted network that can activate storytelling during crisis
The Process
What participation looks like:
- Trusted Introduction: A community connector helps families join safely
- Story Preparation: Phone-based tools and culturally-grounded support
- Secure Holding: Stories are held securely until families choose to share
- Rapid Response: If a crisis happens, support can activate quickly
No deadlines. No pressure. No obligation to go public.
You are always in control:
- You decide which parts of your story are shared
- You may remain anonymous at every step
- Nothing is published without your consent
- You can pause or withdraw at any time
Your story always belongs to you.
Prepare a Plan in case of detention
StoryShield is not a legal service.