- United States
- Ill.
- Letter
I urge the Department of Justice to immediately reinstate vital legal programs for immigrants. The recent forced pause of these initiatives cuts off a lifeline for people navigating the complex immigration system, including asylum seekers fleeing violence, families, and unaccompanied children. As immigration court backlogs approach 4 million cases, access to legal information is crucial for due process and efficiency. Defunding services like the Immigration Court Helpdesk in Chicago obstructs immigrants' ability to understand their rights and make informed decisions. These programs safeguard basic protections for detained individuals facing deportation. Revoking access to even fundamental legal support is inhumane. I request the DOJ reverse this unjust decision that further marginalizes vulnerable populations already facing immense challenges within an increasingly punitive immigration framework. Providing legal resources upholds principles of fairness and justice integral to our nation.