Children

Federal Judge Upholds Birthright Citizenship, Foiling Trump’s Bid to End Protections for Children of Undocumented Parents

by

BOSTON — A federal judge on Friday upheld a nationwide injunction blocking the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. This ruling marks the third judicial decision to prevent the administration’s order since a significant Supreme Court ruling was issued in June. U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin ruled that a previously granted nationwide injunction, supported by over a dozen states, remains intact, despite a Supreme Court limitation on lower court judges’ authority to issue such wide-ranging injunctions. The states contend that the executive order violates the Constitution and threatens crucial … Read more

Oregon Lawmakers Rally for Justice as Family of Four U.S. Citizen Children Faces Immigration Turmoil at Canadian Border

by

PORTLAND, Ore. — A Portland family, including four U.S. citizen children, has been in federal custody since late June after a visit to the Canadian border. Jackie Merlos and her children were detained on June 28, and since then, they have been denied contact with family members and legal counsel. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order on Monday, requiring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to keep the family in Washington state while legal proceedings unfold. Merlos does not currently hold U.S. citizenship but has a pending application for a U visa, … Read more

Facing Fear: Immigration Lawyer Shares Heartbreaking Stories of Children in Crisis

by

Houston, Texas — As an immigration attorney, I witness firsthand the deep fear experienced by children navigating the complexities of immigration law. Many of the young clients I represent live in constant anxiety, uncertain about their futures and the stability of their families. This situation not only affects their well-being but significantly impacts their ability to thrive. The current climate surrounding immigration policy has exacerbated feelings of fear and insecurity among these children. Every day, I encounter stories that highlight the struggles they face. From fear of deportation to anxiety about family separation, these young … Read more

Immigration Attorneys Launch Legal Challenge to Protect Vulnerable Children from Proposed Policy Changes

by

A group of immigration attorneys filed a lawsuit on June 20, seeking to prevent the Trump administration from eliminating a program that safeguards immigrant children in federal custody. The legal action cites firsthand accounts from adults and children detailing the conditions at two family detention facilities located in Texas. The complaint is based on interviews with detainees and visits to facilities in Dilley and Karnes, Texas, conducted by advocates from several organizations, including the National Center for Youth Law and RAICES. These groups assert that the elimination of the Flores Settlement Agreement would significantly worsen … Read more