Confronting Racist Immigration Policies

Dear ,

As we approach a consequential election, the Immigrant Defense Project (IDP) remains focused on our mission: challenging the U.S. immigration system’s reliance on racialized policing, detention, and deportation. Throughout this election cycle, the discussion of immigration has been front and center, but there are too few politicians questioning the use of the racist criminal legal system to determine which families should be torn apart.

Regardless of the election outcome, we face a tough challenge in our work to dismantle harmful policies that endanger immigrant communities and build support for thriving communities. It is thanks to your partnership that IDP is able to fight for those harmed by the crim-imm system today while also planning for what is yet to come.

A New Republic article, The Incomprehensible Scale of Trump’s Deportation Plans, focused on how Trump’s proposed mass deportation would use the machinery that has been built and wielded over decades to inflict a terrifying ramp up of immigration policing. IDP’s Executive Director, Marie Mark, is quoted recounting the harm and violence our communities are already enduring while also acknowledging the anticipation of even more terror, fueled in part by the chaos promised by Trump’s proposed policies.

IDP began planning for the election in May through a series of internal and external meetings. We have done an internal assessment of our strengths and ability to contribute quickly, especially if the results of the election are unknown or contested. And in the coming months, IDP’s work will be especially necessary, as we continue to fight for a system in which no person is treated as disposable.

Immediately after the election, we are prepared to:

Attorneys serving under-resourced immigrants of color carry a heavy responsibility, especially in times of change. IDP collaborates with them to develop and share effective defense strategies.

With each federal administration change, options for immigrants and their families can shift. IDP’s Hotline offers free guidance and updates on immigrant rights, helping families navigate the complex crim-imm system.

We will continue to fight against the systemic criminalization of immigrants.

This work would not be possible without the support of IDP’s community of supporters. We rely on you in our year-round mission to challenge system injustice and protect immigrant rights. Thank you for partnering with us to allow us to respond effectively and immediately in the days following the election, providing immigrants and their loved ones with the support they need.