COURT RULING STRIKES DOWN UNLAWFUL DEPORTATION ORDER TARGETING VENEZUELAN REFUGEES IN TEXAS’ SOUTHERN DISTRICT

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Agrees with the Federal Judge’s Decision Upholding Due Process and Human Dignity for Refugees

Washington, DC – The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) today commends the U.S. District Court for its ruling that halts the use of the Alien Enemies Act (AEA) as a tool to carry out expedited deportations of Venezuelan nationals from Texas’ Southern District. The decision reaffirms core American legal principles and protects the rights of individuals seeking refuge from political violence, organized crime, and humanitarian catastrophe.

"We welcome this decision as a victory for families, workers, and all those who believe that seeking refuge from violence is not a crime," said Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. "Immigrants, including refugees from Venezuela, enrich the social fabric of our communities and strengthen our economy. They come here with hope, seeking to contribute, not to harm. America is at its best when we open our doors to those in need and uphold the principles of justice and freedom that define us," added Palomares.

Judge Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., appointed by President Donald Trump, determined that the administration's invocation of the AEA to expel Venezuelan migrants, based on allegations of affiliation with a gang known as Tren de Aragua, exceeded the law's intended scope. The court ruled that the AEA is strictly applicable only during an armed, organized attack by a foreign power, a condition not met in this case. "The Proclamation exceeds the scope of the statute and, as a result, is unlawful," wrote Judge Rodriguez, concluding that federal officials do not have the legal authority under the Alien Enemies Act to detain, transfer, or deport Venezuelan migrants based on the current justification.

"Immigrant communities are foundational to our nation's strength," said Juan Proaño, Chief Executive Officer of LULAC. "Every day, refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants go to work, raise their children, and pay taxes while contributing to the progress of this country. When we stand up for their rights, we stand up for America's values. LULAC will always be a voice for fairness, opportunity, and hope, the principles that keep our democracy strong," he stated.

The Trump administration's effort to use a centuries-old wartime statute, initially enacted in 1798, was one of its most aggressive attempts to justify deportations with little or no due process. This ruling underscores the importance of upholding constitutional protection and maintaining our country's longstanding commitment to humanitarian values.

LULAC urges federal officials and policymakers to move forward in crafting comprehensive immigration policies that respect due process, provide humanitarian protections, and align with the economic and moral interests of the United States.

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About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing network of councils nationwide, LULAC remains steadfast in its mission to protect and empower millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America's prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit www.LULAC.org.