In an effort to weave as strong a safety net as possible around the immigrants in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia in the wake of threats by the incoming administration to deport millions of immigrants, CAIR Coalition has partnered with over a dozen local service providers, law firms, and law schools to launch the DMV Immigration Alliance.
Alliance members have already given dozens of “Know Your Rights” presentations for area schools, social service providers, and houses of worship. Plans are under way for large-scale consultations where immigrants will receive legal orientation and referrals to local legal service providers. Alliance members are also working to promote immigrant-friendly policies in local jurisdictions, including testifying at a recent DC Council hearing in support of strengthening efforts to shield immigrants residing in the District from ICE enforcement efforts.
While there is much fear and uncertainty about what lies ahead under a new administration, there is also good news bubbling up from the local and state level, as organizations mobilize to strengthen their local safety nets for immigrants, including in some cases, allocating public funds for immigrant defense.
For more information about the DMV Immigration Alliance, please email kathy.doan@caircoalition.org.
