While detained, they were pressured to sign expedited removal orders. By signing the papers, they had essentially agreed to be deported—even though they were not given a Spanish translation and their questions about what they were given went unanswered.
But with the help of a publicly funded legal representative, Raina and Ana were able to avoid deportation, apply for asylum, and leave the jail. You can read Raina and Ana's story here and learn about how publicly funded legal representation helped them.
Pamela, no one should face deportation alone.
Unlike in our criminal legal system, there is no public defender system for people facing the threat of deportation. Millions of people are left to face the complex, unfair immigration system on their own.
With your support, Vera and our partners are taking urgent action to safeguard immigrant communities and help those caught in the system. Since 2017, our Safety & Fairness for Everyone (SAFE) Network has harnessed the momentum of the more than 55 publicly funded immigration legal defense programs across the country. SAFE partners are currently operating in 31 jurisdictions nationwide, with plans to expand further.
Together, we can keep families together, disrupt the criminalization of immigrants, and safeguard the rights and dignity of all.
In solidarity,
Vera Institute of Justice
*Names changed to protect identity.
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