Immigration Groups Urge Biden to Dismantle Deportation Machine
A coalition of immigration advocacy groups, health and legal service providers, labor unions, and faith communities in Pennsylvania have presented a bold agenda for immigration reforms. They released a comprehensive list of recommendations for President Biden, and they demand a dismantling of what they call the “deportation machine” before the possibility of former President Donald Trump returning to office.
This to-do list includes ending Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) contracts, releasing detained immigrants, and halting pending deportation cases. The coalition has also called for the lifting of recent executive orders restricting asylum claims at the Southern border and a bold move to pardon all undocumented individuals.
A Fight for Communities and Families
In a public statement, the Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition highlighted the urgency of their plea. “As the nation braces for a potential second Trump administration – one openly hostile to immigrants and refugees – we must act now to protect our communities and families,” the group declared.
The coalition’s call to action reflects fears of a return to policies that marked Trump’s presidency, including mass raids, expanded detentions, and the separation of families at the border. Advocates emphasized the lasting trauma caused by such actions, urging Biden to take immediate steps to minimize harm before January 20.
Their Key Policy Recommendations
- Ending Detention Contracts and Releasing Detainees
Advocates are urging the administration to terminate ICE contracts and expedite the release of immigrants in detention. They argue that detention centers perpetuate inhumane conditions and are unnecessary for managing immigration cases.
- Reinstating Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
The coalition recommends re-designating TPS for countries with ongoing humanitarian crises. This move would protect individuals from being returned to unsafe environments and fulfil promises made by the Biden administration to safeguard vulnerable populations.
- Streamlining Work Permit Processing
To address labor shortages and economic stability, the group called on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prioritize work permit applications across all categories. They also suggested finalizing regulations to make automatic extensions permanent for eligible workers.
- Expanding Legal Pathways for DACA Recipients
With the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program facing legal uncertainty, the coalition advocates for expedited renewals and broader opportunities for recipients. They propose new pathways for employment and permanent residency for DACA recipients who have graduated from U.S. colleges.
- Overhauling Asylum Policies
The coalition called for the elimination of Trump-era asylum restrictions and an end to “credible fear interviews” at the border. They argue that current practices lead to wrongful deportations, preventing individuals from effectively presenting their cases.
Addressing Long-Term Challenges
The coalition also emphasized the need for greater transparency from the federal government. They urged the Biden administration to provide resources that would help state and local governments limit their involvement in mass deportations. Additionally, they recommended pre-emptive funding to protect immigration programs vulnerable to future policy shifts.
A Final Push for Reform
In closing, the Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition underscored the importance of acting swiftly. “This is not just about undoing the damage of the Trump years but about building a humane and just immigration system that protects everyone,” they stated.
With 56 member organizations, including the ACLU Pennsylvania and the Latino Community Center, the coalition’s call is a reminder of the stakes involved in immigration reform. The Biden administration has a limited window to implement meaningful change before the political landscape potentially shifts again.
What’s Next? Immigration Groups Urge Biden to Dismantle Longstanding ‘Deportation Machine’
The coalition’s recommendations reflect an urgent plea for justice, safety, and compassion in U.S. immigration policy. By addressing these issues now, the Biden administration can set a new standard for protecting immigrant communities and ensure a fairer future for all.
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