Door Answering Policy
Created by a Motion on 2022-12-4. The version passed by the house was inthis Google Doc.
WHAT DO I DO WHEN SOMEONE I DON’T KNOW KNOCKS ON THE DOOR OR COMES TO SASONA LOOKING FOR SOMEONE?
You: Hi. Who are you? Who are you here to see?
Them: Hi I’m [their name]. I’m looking for [resident's name].
You: Ok let me go check if they are available. Please wait outside.
Go find the resident and tell them who is here and ask if they want to see them.
If yes, they can go greet their guest or can give you permission to bring the guest to them. If no, go back to the guest and tell them they are unavailable or not home.
If the answer is no and the guest refuses to leave or becomes insistent, get the steward (or another mediator) to intervene.
If they are not here for anyone in particular, let them know that someone in the house needs to be expecting them because they need to be accompanied by someone in the house. If you are willing to accompany them, they are your guest and responsibility. If they are here to tour the house because they are a prospective, let them know they need to coordinate with the Membership Coordinator to have a pre-scheduled guided tour.
WHAT DO I DO IF THE POLICE SHOW UP AT THE DOOR?
Do not give them permission to enter.
Get the steward.
If the police or immigration agents come to your home, you do not have to let them in unless they have certain kinds of warrants.
Ask the officer to slip the warrant under the door or hold it up to the window so you can inspect it. A search warrant allows police to enter the address listed on the warrant, but officers can only search the areas and for the items listed. An arrest warrant allows police to enter the home of the person listed on the warrant if they believe the person is inside. A warrant of removal/deportation (ICE warrant) does not allow officers to enter a home without consent.
Even if officers have a warrant, you have the right to remain silent. If you choose to speak to the officers, step outside and close the door.