IN THE NEWS

This week the Young Center and First Focus on Children released a new report opposing the Biden Administration’s reliance on rushed proceedings for children’s immigration cases. These “expedited” processes prioritize speed over fairness by limiting children’s timeframe to file a case or find an attorney.

Our report, “Fast not Fair,” explains why expedited cases are fundamentally unfair for kids and what could be done instead to give kids a chance at a fair day in immigration court. You can help us uplift our report here. You can also share our social media posts here, here, and here. 

POLICY CORNER

On February 26th, the Biden administration announced its plans to implement a transit ban that will bar most children, families, and adults from being able to seek asylum in the U.S.

Despite the rule's pending implementation, we still have an opportunity to stand up for immigrant families. The Biden administration is asking the public what we think about this rule and will consider our comments before issuing the final version. Send a public comment to the Biden administration by March 27 demanding #NoAsylumBan today. Feel free to use some of our suggested child and family centered language when drafting your comments.

Last week, the New York Times documented the horrific experiences some unaccompanied children face after arriving here—specifically, exploitation by American companies who hire children for patently dangerous work to keep prices low for consumers and increase profits. 

While lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are demanding accountability by companies that employed these kids and a crackdown on hiring practices, we're reminding them building up an immigration system that prioritizes family unity and a child’s best interests is ALSO necessary to ensure that immigrant children aren't subjected to exploitation and  labor trafficking.

WITH GRATITUDE

Inspired by the Young Center’s work and the parallels to his own job as a social worker, Robert Heirendt decided to combine his passion for music with his love for helping children and their families. This resulted in Robert working with 17 other performers to put together a tribute album of Bob Dylan’s “Self Portrait,” a project which debuted recently at a fundraiser for the Young Center. Robert hopes his project will inspire others to become Young Center supporters as well.

We are so grateful to everyone who participated at the Washington, D.C. premiere of documentary feature film Seeking Asylum, and the post-film discussion with advocates including our Policy Director Jennifer Nagda.

"Seeking Asylum" bears witness to the deterrents migrants face when petitioning for asylum in the United States. "Seeking Asylum" follows one woman’s journey as she searches for protection for her and her children. The film is now available on major streaming platforms. Stay tuned for additional film-related events in your area. 

GET INVOLVED

We have several volunteer opportunities coming up in our Phoenix, San Antonio, Chicago, Houston, and DC offices. Join the fight for immigrant children's rights today!