[Atlanta, GA, Friday, November 9, 2018] On Thursday, November 8, 2018, the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security announced an Interim Final Rule which seeks to limit claims of asylum in the United States. Asylum status is reserved for people who are fleeing persecution on the basis of their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. This change in immigration policy would deem asylum-seekers ineligible if they do not present themselves for inspection at an official port of entry, regardless of the validity of their claims.

On the same day, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced their intention to deport victims of human trafficking and abuse. As of November 19, 2018, USCIS will issue Notices to Appear (NTAs) to applicants whose claim is denied, which will place victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual assault into removal proceedings. This new policy places vulnerable communities at risk for removal, and will deter immigrant victims from coming forward to report their abuse.

These changes come as a caravan of thousands of people move toward the U.S. southern border, many of whom are expected to seek an asylum claim when they arrive. “This is a heartbreaking time for immigrant communities,” said Monica Modi Khant, Executive Director of Georgia Asylum and Immigration Network (GAIN). “Imagine the terror you would have to experience to bring your family and walk — literally walk — across multiple countries to find protection. Each and every asylum-seeker deserves the chance to have their claim heard in a fair process. That promise is not only granted by international law; it is also central to what we stand for as a nation.”

Georgia Asylum and Immigration Network (GAIN) is based in Atlanta, Georgia. Since 2005, GAIN has provided free immigration legal services to victims of crimes and persecution. Our vision is a world with safety, freedom, and opportunity for all.

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For more information, visit our website at georgisasylum.org or call 678-335-6040 ext. 101.