What’s New?
A new form of family separation
The New York Times has uncovered cases of a new form of family separation. The U.S. government is forcing parents to choose between being deported as a family or being separated from their children as they pursue their cases in the United States. As a result, children end up in foster care. Sometimes parents are not given a choice, and they are left simultaneously fighting their immigration cases and for custody of their children.
What Else?
Deportation of U.S. children
Last week, the National Immigration Project filed a lawsuit against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on behalf of two families who were unlawfully removed along with their U.S. citizen children in April (J.L.V. v. Acuna). Among the U.S. citizen children deported is a five-year-old undergoing treatment for kidney cancer. The challenge seeks to hold ICE accountable for the unlawful deportation of U.S. citizens and its disregard for the rights and safety of children.
Asylum ban partially blocked
On August 1, a panel of federal judges partially blocked the administration’s asylum ban (Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services v. Noem). This policy expels people seeking protection at the U.S. border without due process. As a result, individuals will be able to request humanitarian protections – a right enshrined in U.S. law.
How You Can Help
- Donate – Your gift helps LSSNCA provide housing, job training, and other essential services to refugees.
- Volunteer – Opportunities range from one-day events to longer-term mentorships.
- Amplify – LSSNCA has expanded its immigration legal services to include individuals who are not former or current program participants. Share this flyer with those in need of assistance.
