Victory: Kelly released from detention!

Kelly, a 24-year-old transgender asylum seeker, was finally released last week after spending nearly three years in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) jail. Kelly's release comes after years of advocacy and a global public outcry for her freedom. THANK YOU to the many of you who signed the petition and took action for Kelly. She’s still fighting her immigration case, but she can now do it surrounded by a loving and supportive community. Read the statement from the #FreeKelly campaign team of which NIJC is a part.

Trump administration continues attacks on asylum

The Trump administration proposed regulations that would destroy the asylum system, forcing many asylum seekers to return to danger and persecution. Last week was the deadline for the public to submit comments on the rule, and Americans submitted more than 86,600 comments, many opposing these terrible proposed rules.

Thank you to all of you who responded to our call to action and submitted comments to protect asylum. Read the comment NIJC submitted, which includes testimony from several asylees who recognize that if these rules would have been in effect when they applied for asylum, they likely would not have received protection in the U.S.

Stay tuned: Unfortunately, the administration is continuing its attacks and has released another proposed rule to block asylum seekers using the global pandemic as false justification. We'll fight back against this latest proposed rule, as we've done with every attack on immigrants and asylum seekers, and we'll need your voice again. Stay tuned for more details about how you can fight back against the latest proposed rule.

Congress must investigate private prisons' COVID response

Last week, Congress held a hearing to discuss ICE contractors' response to the COVID-19 pandemic. After witnessing months of inadequate protections and an explosive rise in positive cases in detention, NIJC submitted a statement examining the COVID-19 outbreak in one privately run jail, which is reflective of the larger problems with the system of privatized mass detention that profits at the expense of human rights. Read the blog post and statement for the Congressional hearing.

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New guide for journalists covering immigration and criminal justice

As publications assess how language impacts stories on systemic racism and immigration, Comm/Unity, a national network of communicators including NIJC, published a well-researched style guide on people-centered language for reporters covering immigrants who have had contact with the criminal justice system. Check out the guide.

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An asylum seeker finds a new beginning

Osiel, a gay asylum seeker who was forced to leave Venezuela for his safety, never thought that he could start a new life in his 50s. Since winning asylum, Osiel has gotten a job, began taking English lessons, and met a boyfriend. Read Osiel's moving story here.

We're hiring!

If you're interested in joining a talented team of individuals fighting for immigrant rights across the country, you're in luck! NIJC has several open positions for a range of experience levels and in various programs. Check out all of NIJC's open positions and apply now!