South Philly Artists Create 'Know Your Rights' Art Installation

The public project aims to educate the community on handling encounters with ICE agents.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

A pair of South Philadelphia street artists have created a 'Know Your Rights' art installation, where passersby can take pocket-sized guides on how to handle encounters with ICE agents. The installation, located at the corner of Washington and Passyunk in South Philadelphia, features cards in multiple languages outlining the steps to take if confronted by immigration enforcement.

Why it matters

The installation highlights the need for accessible information and resources for immigrant communities who may face interactions with immigration authorities. By using public art, the artists are bringing this important information directly to the community in an engaging and impactful way.

The details

The 'Know Your Rights' installation was created by two South Philadelphia street artists, known as 'South Philly Jay' and his partner. The cards available at the installation are printed in Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, and Chinese, providing guidance on how to respond if approached by ICE agents. The installation has been up since last summer, but recently gained viral attention on social media.

  • The 'Know Your Rights' installation has been up since last summer in South Philadelphia.
  • The installation recently went viral on social media.

The players

South Philly Jay

One of the South Philadelphia street artists who created the 'Know Your Rights' installation.

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What they’re saying

“Let's be frank, this shouldn't need to exist, right? This shouldn't be a thing that we have to do.”

— South Philly Jay, Street Artist (6abc.com)

The takeaway

The 'Know Your Rights' art installation is a powerful example of how public art can be used to educate and empower communities, particularly those facing challenges from immigration enforcement. By making this critical information accessible and visible, the artists are helping to ensure that vulnerable individuals know their rights and can protect themselves.