We’re seeing unprecedented attacks on our immigrant neighbors and those seeking safety in the United States, including children. As our country grapples with the legacy of systemic racism alongside a global pandemic that disproportionately affects people of color, we must remain committed to protecting human rights and providing access to justice for all. See our statement in solidarity with communities protesting to defend Black lives.
We must take action and raise our voices loud to keep families and communities together and safe, and uphold the American values we hold dear. Here's what you can do:
Protect asylum during the pandemic.
The Trump administration proposed a new rule that would unlawfully ban individuals seeking asylum in the United States under the false pretense of limiting the spread of disease. Take action before August 10th and send a comment to oppose this latest proposed rule.
Represent immigrants and asylum seekers.
As a pro bono attorney you help give voice to immigrants and refugees who are without representation. The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) provides excellent support and guidance to attorneys who represent immigrants pro bono including asylum seekers, detained individuals, and families who were cruelly separated at the border. Learn more about being a pro bono attorney and see the list of cases in need of pro bono representation.
Volunteer language services.
NIJC provides legal services to immigrants from around the world. Many of our clients do not speak English and therefore we and our pro bono attorneys need assistance with interpreting and translating. If you have an advanced ability in English and another language and would like to volunteer, please get in touch with us.
Contact your members of Congress.
The U.S. spends billions of taxpayer dollars to separate parents from their children and lock up tens of thousands of immigrants--including asylum seekers--in an abusive and deadly detention system. Congress has the power to cut off funding to stop mass incarceration and family separation. Take action now.
Help free people from immigration jails.
As COVID-19 spreads in immigration jails, people locked up inside are especially vulnerable, detained in close contact with others and without adequate medical care or basic hygiene supplies like soap. You can support individuals in detention, and join in the call to elected and administration officials to #FreeThemAll during the coronavirus pandemic so people can reunite with their families and communities.
Know your rights.
Everyone in the United States has rights under the Constitution, regardless of immigration status. Make sure you know your rights and share the information far and wide. Learn more.
Learn about the attacks on asylum.
The United States must uphold its obligation to provide refuge for men, women, and children seeking freedom and safety from persecution. Check out a timeline of the Trump administration’s efforts to end asylum in the United States.
Stay informed.
Sign up for NIJC's e-updates and action alerts to stay informed about immigration issues and be alerted when you can take urgent action. Follow NIJC on social media on Facebook, Twitter at @nijc, Instagram at @immigrantjustice, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Trustworthy information is critical right now and you can help share it.
Donate.
Your donation to NIJC helps fund life-changing legal services for families who face separation, community outreach to make sure our neighbors know their rights, lawyers and legal staff to get people out of jail and to reunite families. Give now.
Julia Toepfer is NIJC's senior marketing & digital engagement strategist.