Annie Comes Home: The truth about immigration: ask us anything

Ask an Expert: Do you have questions about the future of U.S. immigration law? Ask us anything:

Pamela,

With the start of a second Trump presidency, it is so important to know the truth about immigration. Right now, there are harmful myths and outright lies being spread about people who seek safety, opportunity, and community here in the United States. This is part of a coordinated effort to advance racist, devastating policies.

Vera's team of researchers and policy experts are here to help shed light on the truth and answer any questions you may have about immigration. We invite you to submit your question(s) today!

Unsure where to begin? Here are three things you—and everyone—need to know about immigration law:

It is perfectly legal to request asylum. People who come to the United States border to ask for help are not breaking the law. Under both U.S. and international law, people who face danger in their homelands have the right to request and be considered for asylum.

Undocumented people have far lower crime rates than U.S. citizens. Politicians and pundits often falsely link undocumented people to crime in the United States. Yet an extensive study of crimes in all 50 states and Washington, DC found that undocumented immigration does not increase violent crime.

Many people who have the legal right to remain in the U.S. are deported anyway. Unlike in criminal court, people facing deportation in immigration court are not entitled to an attorney if they cannot afford one. This makes it much more likely that they will be deported, even if they could have established a legal right to stay.

The United States has much work ahead to reform its dysfunctional and often cruel immigration system.

With the support of this community, Vera is calling on our leaders to rebuild the U.S. immigration system with policies that treat each person with dignity and fairness, no matter where they were born or how much money they have.

What questions do you have? Ask our experts anything! We'll be reviewing your questions and will share the answers in an upcoming email.

Thank you for being with us,
Vera Institute of Justice