In many religions, such as Catholicism, offering sanctuary to those in need is a key tenet. Now, religious groups throughout the United States are offering aid and sanctuary to recent immigrants from Central America. This is in response to the current wave of anti-undocumented immigrant sentiment sweeping through the United States accompanied by federal raids conducted by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) meant to crack down on undocumented immigrant populations inside the United States.
These raids often result in individuals being swiftly deported without proper trials or legal representation. Thus far, 120 people have been ordered to leave the United States in these federal raids. This type of raid and deportation can be terrifying and can break a family apart. If you are a recent immigrant or a family member of somebody who has recently come to the United States, it is important that you know your rights regarding deportation. Work with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that you fully understand these rights and can protect yourself if issues related to staying in the country arise.
The Scope of America’s Undocumented Immigrant Population
Since 2014, more than 100,000 people from Central America have entered the United States. These individuals come here for a variety of reasons, such as the following:
- Escaping violence;
- Leaving communities and nations corrupt with drug trafficking;
- Seeking better economic opportunities for their families; and
- Coming to be with family members who have already entered the United States.
How Do Religious Groups Help Immigrants?
Religious groups in Los Angeles and throughout the United States have a long history of backing progressive immigration law reform and providing aid for individuals and families who come to this country fleeing violence and seeking more stable lives. An example of this is the Sanctuary Movement, through which a network of United States border area churches offered safe places for refugees fleeing wars and oppressive regimes in South and Central America in the 1980s. This movement eventually led to pressure on the Reagan administration to pass the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, which granted new rights to America’s immigrant population.
Today, churches and other faith centers in Los Angeles are working similarly to pass pro-immigrant legislation like the DREAM Act. Even groups that traditionally back conservative legislation, like evangelical Christian groups, support such acts in the name of moral righteousness. Some of the ways these groups help the people they work with, aside from supporting progressive legislation, include welcoming them into their congregations, providing food, clothing, and basic necessities for them, and aiding them with assimilation to life in America.
Work with an Experienced Boston Immigration Attorney
When you need help with one of the many legal issues that recent and not-so-recent immigrants face, seek guidance from an experienced immigration attorney. At Goldstein Immigration Lawyers we are dedicated to working with recent immigrants to smooth out the naturalization process and resolve any issues they face. Contact our firm today to set up your initial legal consultation.
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