It is inexcusable that vulnerable migrant children are being deprived of legal representation due to the cruel March 21st termination by the Trump administration of a vital $200 million federal contract. The inhumane reality is that young kids, some as young as 4 years old, appear alone in court proceedings without an attorney to advocate for their rights and to explain the complex legal process. This egregious situation violates basic principles of justice and human rights.
The statistics are alarming: 96% of unrepresented individuals in New York immigration courts are ordered deported, compared to only 23% of those with legal counsel. Denying children access to attorneys virtually guarantees their deportation, regardless of whether they may qualify for legal protections like asylum. This constitutes a grave injustice and abject cruelty towards these vulnerable young migrants fleeing violence and instability. As a society that upholds human dignity and due process, we have a moral obligation to reinstate full funding for initiatives that provide free legal representation to unaccompanied migrant children facing deportation proceedings.
Leaving kids to navigate the daunting legal system alone is unconscionably cruel and unjust. Robust legislative action is urgently needed to enshrine the right to counsel for all children in immigration custody, ensuring they receive fair hearings and safeguarding their well-being. The harrowing accounts of children spinning toys, laughing in confusion, unable
to understand the gravity of proceedings determining their futures vividly underscore the imperative to act swiftly.
Restoring the $18 million in funding for legal aid providers in New York alone is crucial, but a permanent legislative solution is required. Our principles and humanity demand we extend the constitutional right to counsel to every child ensnared in immigration courts through no fault of their own.
First sent on April 24 by Coleman · 3,841 signers in
the past 7 days
