News about a change in immigration policy is important to review. Recently, a judge ordered the federal government to stop deporting or expelling children who come across the border without anyone accompanying them before they’re able to request asylum or some other type of protection.
The preliminary injunction stops a policy that had previously resulted in thousands of deportations. It helps protect children who come to the U.S. seeking asylum and other protections under federal law.
Since March, it’s believed that over 8,800 children, all unaccompanied, have been sent back into Mexico. This is all reportedly being done before they have the opportunity to request asylum or other protections.
How does the preliminary injunction help children who cross the border?
Children who cross the border unaccompanied are protected by this order. However, parents and children who are traveling together or adults who are traveling on their own are not.
This change matters, because it helps protect children who have the right to seek out asylum when they come to the U.S. as well as children who are coming to seek other types of protection. As unaccompanied minors, if the U.S. sends them back to another country, they could be put in danger if they came here to escape gangs, crime and/or abuse or violence.
Immigration policies are always changing, which is why it’s important to keep up with court decisions, changes in federal policy and any new laws. If your family may be affected by a change in the law, you may want to reach out to your attorney for more information on what you can do to protect yourself and the people you love.