What would happen if U.S. immigration policy were crafted based on the majority views of Americans? The two major political parties express often polar opposite views on immigration, and even presidents who are perceived as open to immigration (Barack Obama…
In border migrant camps, it’s a cold and lonely Christmas — but there is hope for the new year
The little girl playing in a migrant camp in Mexico broke into a big smile when asked what she wants for Christmas. “A pair of skates,” 9-year-old Jennifer of El Salvador said through an interpreter during a Zoom call on…
Trump administration using obscure law to deny entry to immigrants without court process
Federal authorities are using an obscure 1940s law to secretly arrest and deport undocumented immigrants from the U.S., and to terrifying effect. “I know people who are running scared right now,” said Ray Schellinger, global consultant for immigration and refugees…
Pizzas el Buen Samaritano puts refugees to work while waiting
A Baptist minister is confronting pandemic-induced poverty, widespread despair and menacing drug cartels by putting refugees to work baking and selling pizza in Mexico. Lorenzo Ortiz, who directs three shelters for refugees in communities that border the U.S., has launched…
We must not look away from 8,800 expelled immigrant children
In mid-September, U.S. Customs and Border Protection revealed it has expelled 8,800 unaccompanied immigrant children along the U.S.-Mexico border, based on COVID-19 emergency orders. The children did not receive basic protections. They didn’t have access to legal counsel. They didn’t…
Coronavirus complicates hurricane relief efforts by churches
If you think COVID-19 is nasty now, try riding out a natural disaster during the pandemic — or recovering from one. Faith-based disaster response officials describe nightmarish challenges imposed by the coronavirus on communities that have endured hurricanes and tornadoes…
At home or detained, immigrants face extra challenges in time of pandemic
“There are other ways that they can allow people to move about in their communities, to go home and isolate with their families and shelter in place.”