Ayuda condemns the Trump administration’s latest attempt to restrict adjustment of status for immigrants seeking lawful permanent residency in the United States.
The pathway to citizenship is deeply rooted in the history of the United States, a nation shaped and strengthened by generations of immigrants seeking safety, opportunity and a better future for their families. Immigrants have helped build communities, strengthen the economy and advance democracy across the country. Ayuda believes the United States should be building an immigration system rooted in dignity, compassion and fairness, not one that punishes families and forces people into impossible choices.
For decades, adjustment of status has allowed eligible immigrants to apply for green cards while remaining with their families and communities in the United States. This policy would force many applicants to leave the country and pursue the process abroad, creating fear, instability and unnecessary family separation for people already navigating an increasingly punitive immigration system. At a time when U.S. consulates abroad have delayed processing to a standstill, this could be tantamount to a ban for many eligible immigrants.
“At Ayuda, we see every day the strength, resilience and humanity of immigrant families building their lives and futures in this country,” said Victoria Maqueda Feldman, Ayuda legal director. “This policy threatens to tear families apart, destabilize communities and place immigrant families at greater risk of hardship and harm.”
The consequences for immigrant families could be devastating. Parents, children and longtime community members may face separation, deeper financial hardship and new barriers to lawful permanent residency, even after building their lives and futures in the United States.
Ayuda believes this policy is unlawful and undermines family unity, fairness and due process. Rather than creating a more just and functional immigration system, it imposes additional harm and uncertainty on immigrants pursuing lawful pathways to safety and stability. We look forward to seeing it challenged in court.
Ayuda stands with immigrant communities, legal advocates, and service providers across the country opposing this harmful policy and remains committed to defending the rights, safety and dignity of immigrant communities throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
*Immigration cases are highly fact-specific, and more information about the impact of this memo is still emerging. Anyone with questions about how this may affect them should speak with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative for guidance specific to their case.