IMMIGRANT LEGAL RESOURCE CENTER

The prison industrial complex is a highly adaptive mechanism that is constantly shifting to sustain itself. In recent years, the movement against mass incarceration has gained traction in reducing penal incarceration in the United States. In this report in collaboration with the Detention Watch Network, we detail select case examples of jails and prisons that closed for one purpose, only to cage a different group of people. The case studies demonstrate how sustained pressure and community organizing can lead to transformative wins that can help free people and keep cages shut down for good. 

This practice advisory addresses FAQs related to current public charge policy including definitions and applicability of the new 2022 rule, use of benefits and other government programs, exemptions, affidavit of support and sponsor questions, and bond.

An immigrant legal defense fund pays legal service providers to represent community members facing deportation in immigration court. This resource provides a general overview of immigrant legal defense funds (ILDFs) at the municipal level in Texas, including why they are needed, the goals and components of a strong ILDF, and examples of these funds from across the state.

On April 19, 2023, the ILRC sent a letter to USCIS commending the agency on several changes to the USCIS Policy Manual and practices. The letter acknowledges the agency’s updates to civil surgeon signatures on Form I-693, the inclusion of additional gender markers on forms, clarifications on filing deadlines, and the flexibility for special immigrant juvenile applicants to file Form I-360 in person if they are in danger of aging out of eligibility. These changes are welcome improvements to existing guidance and practices and the ILRC encourage USCIS to continue to make further changes to improve the applicant experience and efficient use of agency resources.

ILRC branding assets are downloadable below. Third party designers and vendors, please reference the Brand Book & Visual Style Guide (PDF) to ensure adherence to brand and logo policy. Always connect with your ILRC staff liaison before final exports and for confirmation of standards, permissions, and versions.