Sign In Forgot Password
Home

Temple Beth El Blog

Immigration and Refugee Policy Changes under Biden: Implications for Action

01/25/2021 06:43:51 PM

Jan25

By Erica Serlin, Lynn Silverman, and Marta Karlov, co-chairs of the Immigrant Rights Action Team

During the Trump administration, over 400 changes in immigration and refugee policy were implemented. A few examples include a ban on travel from Muslim countries, family separations at the border, increased ICE enforcement, the rescission of DACA, the requirement for asylum seekers to remain in Mexico while awaiting hearings, and the reduction of the refugee admission ceiling from 85,000 in 2016 to 18,000 last year. There was also a tremendous increase in civil immigration detention and countless documented violations against those in detention.

On Sunday, February 21, 7:00–8:30 pm, Professor Erin Barbato, director of the Immigrant Justice Clinic at the UW Law School, will talk with us about her work providing legal representation to people facing deportation or seeking asylum. She will address the major changes affecting immigrants and refugees implemented during the Trump administration and the policy reforms promised by President Biden.

Following a question-and-answer session, we will brainstorm possible next steps for congregational education and advocacy, including suggestions from the Dane Sanctuary Coalition. With the election behind us, we hope to refocus our attention on immigration and refugee reform. We need your input as we decide how to hold the Biden-Harris administration accountable and how best to support urgently needed changes. We’re looking forward to an informative and inspiring program and hope you’ll join us. Sign up here to receive the Zoom link.

April 19, 2024 11 Nisan 5784