The Ninth Federal Circuit Court of Appeals Continues to Block the Administration’s Attempt to End DACA. The Administration cannot arbitrarily end the DACA program, according to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The program remains in effect temporarily while other cases wind through the courts. Ultimately, the Supreme Court will decide whether the program can continue.

Important Information on Temporary Protected Status (TPS). TPS holders from Nicaragua and Sudan had their status extended until April 2, 2019. For details affecting someone’s individual legal status, contact a qualified immigration attorney. Click here for more information on TPS from Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC).

Seeking Asylum is a Right Protected by International and U.S. Law. Under U.S. law, a person may apply for asylum at a port of entry or from within the United States. The law explicitly permits people who are in the United States to seek asylum whether they entered with documentation or not. An application for asylum may also be filed as a defense from deportation. See background information from CLINIC.

What Can One Person Do To Stop Human Trafficking?  Human trafficking is all around us – what can we do? For recognizable signs and “take action” suggestions, visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) website.

Muslims and Jews in Pittsburgh – Jews and Catholics in Atlanta. In the wake of the mass shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue, Muslim and Jewish communities in Pittsburgh continue a supportive relationship that has existed since before 9/11. Both communities recognize their predecessors as immigrants and join in opposition to hatred. Likewise, Catholic and Jewish communities in Atlanta have developed a continuing relationship based on the Second Vatican Council document Nostra Aetate.

Prayer Reminder. Born in Italy in 1850, Frances Xavier Cabrini founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and brought them to the United States to minister among Italian immigrants. She was canonized in 1946 as the first U.S. citizen saint of the Catholic Church. Click here to read more about her life. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, pray for us and all migrating people.

The “Caravan” From Central America Consists of Our Brothers and Sisters.  National Catholic leaders put the “caravan” of migrants moving through Mexico in a Christian perspective. Catholic agencies assisting poor and vulnerable migrants in the United States and around the world have affirmed that seeking asylum is not a crime, urge all governments to abide by international law and existing domestic laws that protect those seeking safe haven and ensure that all those returned to their home country are protected and repatriated safely. Read the complete statement.

CLINIC Stands Ready. Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC) and its affiliates stand ready to assist refugees and asylum seekers, especially those who are fleeing intolerable conditions in their homeland.

Humanitarian Groups Prepare. No matter how many people come to the border, humanitarian groups such as the Jesuit Kino Border Initiative are ready to assist with dignity and compassion. Click here to read more.

ICYMI – Rulemaking and Advocacy. ICYMI – Rulemaking and Advocacy. Federal rules and regulations can have a dramatic impact on immigration, but how can someone effectively advocate in the rulemaking process? On October 17, staff from Justice for Immigrants and core affiliates discussed the potential harm to immigrants and refugees based on current proposed changes, how to promote Catholic priorities and why we should comment on proposals. A very helpful webinar is available online. Also, check out this resource from Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC).

Is It a Crisis? Migration is often called a “crisis,” but some would say it is not one. “I think one of the things we need to do is tone down the hysteria,” said Michael Czerny, S.J., undersecretary of the Migrants and Refugees Section of the Vatican’s Office for Integral Human Development. America Magazine quotes Father Czerny, suggesting that the cause is mismanagement and poor policy, both can be rectified with sufficient political will.

The “Caravan” and Catholic Social Teaching. Catholic social teaching helps us look at world events through the lens of the Gospel and our Catholic tradition. David Hollenbeck, S.J. shares his reflection on the Gospel and political positioning related to those from Central America making their way toward the United States, many seeking lawful asylum.

An Early Christmas Present. The Justice for Immigrants annual conference will be in Arlington, Virginia December 5-7, 2018. This very important conference is filled with information and a good way to prepare for supporting immigrants in the new year. Scholarships are available. Learn more and register online.

ICYMI – Rulemaking and Advocacy. Federal rules and regulations can have a dramatic impact on immigration, but how can someone effectively advocate in the rulemaking process? On October 17, staff from Justice for Immigrants and core affiliates discussed the potential harm to immigrants and refugees based on current proposed changes, how to promote Catholic priorities and why we should comment on proposals. A very helpful webinar is now available online. Also, check out this resource from Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC).

Synod of Bishops. The Synod of Bishops in Rome focuses on youth and vocations, but immigration issues are often discussed. A young graduate of Georgetown University shares her life as an immigrant in America. See other stories on Twitter using #caring4migrants.

Rulemaking and Advocacy. Federal rules and regulations can have a dramatic impact on immigration, but how can someone effectively advocate in the rulemaking process? On October 17, staff from Justice for Immigrants and core affiliates discussed the potential harm to immigrants and refugees based on current proposed changes, how to promote Catholic priorities, and why we should comment on proposals. A very helpful webinar is now available online. Also, check out this resource from Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC).

Family Separation. Not just talk but action is needed. Lutheran Immigration Services and USCCB Office of Migration Services issued a press release and report on the work of faith-based organizations to assist separated immigrant and refugee families.

ICYMI – Ask to Hear a Story or Share Yours. Everyone has family stories, but immigrant stories have special sacrifices and heroism. Read this reflection. Think about your story and ask others to share theirs.

Ask to Hear a Story or Share Yours. Everyone has family stories, but immigrant stories have special sacrifices and heroism. Read this reflection. Think about your story and ask others to share theirs.

Children are Still Being Detained. Voices are needed to stop the detention of children. Read more and send an email. Also, click here for pictures of migrants that tell their stories.

Federal Rulemaking is Different from Legislation. Citizens can directly comment on rules proposed by the federal government. Click here for background information and to make comments on rules related to detention.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is Temporarily Protected. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from terminating TPS for roughly 300,000 people from El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Sudan. The injunction is temporary and subject to review, but it gives protection to those with TPS who would otherwise be required to leave the United States in the near future. Federal legislation is still needed. Click here for a comparison of bills still pending in Congress.

Do You Want a Deep Dive Into Immigration Issues From a Catholic Perspective? Consider attending the Justice for Immigrants 2018 National Conference on December 5 – 7 in Arlington, Virginia.

Administration is Changing Rules That Apply to Legal Residents Who Accept Public Benefits. The Trump administration is proposing a new regulation that would make it extremely difficult for many immigrants to come to the US or receive green cards if they are deemed likely to use public benefits like food stamps or Medicaid. The rules are technical and somewhat difficult to follow, but click here for an explanation. Anyone with questions about coming to the United States or staying here legally should consult a knowledgeable immigration attorney.

Refugee Ceiling for Fiscal Year 2019 Will Be Lowest in History. President Trump has set the ceiling on refugees into the United States at 30,000 in fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1, 2018. The ceiling reduces refugees from every part of the world except Latin America and the Caribbean by fifty percent over 2018. The reduction also includes those fleeing religious persecution.

ICYMI – Time to Vote. Elected officials make immigration laws that affect all of us. The Church cannot support or oppose political candidates, but all citizens should be attentive to political platforms to vote responsibly and prudently. The general election will be November 6, 2018. All voters must be registered by October 9, 2018. Don’t miss the opportunity to have an impact on our future.

National V Encuentro. The four-day national gathering of Hispanic and Latino Catholics reflected the needs of immigrants and recipients of temporary protected status. Read personal reflections from Catholic News Agency. Some of the nation’s most outspoken bishops who support immigrants also attended and showed support.

Proposed Rules May Limit Important Services for Undocumented. The Administration is proposing new rules that could prevent legal permanent residents from obtaining naturalized citizenship if they have lawfully received public benefits. Bishop Joe Vasquez, Chair of the USCCB Committee on Migration and Bishop of Austin, Texas, with Bishop Frank Dewane, Chair of Committee on Domestic and Social Development and the Bishop of Venice, Florida, issued a statement criticizing the proposal.

Be Careful of Immigration Scams. As immigrants seek ways to obtain citizenship, please be aware of scammers who are out to defraud the vulnerable.

Pray for Those Impacted By the Hurricane. Also, please pray especially for undocumented families who may be afraid to request the help they need for fear of detention.

Stay Up to Date. Get the latest updates from Justice for Immigrants by following @USCCBJFI on Twitter and signing up for their newsletter at the bottom of any page of their website. Justice for Immigrants provides updates on backgrounders, webinars and the latest week in review.

The Administration Continues to Separate Families. For the latest information, visit the Justice for Immigrants website. A webinar is coming soon.

Why is Human Trafficking So Prevalent? Learn about factors that have allowed this modern day slavery to become the fastest growing source of illicit profit for criminals worldwide and a $150 billion industry.

ICYMI – “Building Communities of Welcome” – National Migration Week 2019. Be ready to celebrate National Migration Week in January 2019. Review the helpful tool kit prepared by Migration and Refugee Services.

“Building Communities of Welcome” – National Migration Week 2019. Get ready to celebrate National Migration Week in January 2019. Review the helpful tool kit prepared by Migration and Refugee Services.

Fight Immigration Fraud. Sad as it may be, there are people who prey on the vulnerable. Learn how to protect yourself and those with whom you associate by participating in a free webinar from Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC).

An Archbishop, Priest and Religious Woman Visit “the Dilly.” The immigration center in Dilly, Texas is one of the largest family detention centers in the United States. Read about the Catholic Church ministering to the detainees.

DACCA Continues to Be Effective, But Just Barely. Despite efforts of the Trump Administration, the DACA program is still in operation, but barely. Click here to read an update on this program that helps young people brought to the United States by their parents.

Atlanta Will No Longer Accept ICE Detainees. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has signed an executive order to prevent the holding of individuals designated by ICE because of her concerns about separating immigrant children from parents.