Radio Interview on Immigration Reform and Deportation:
Earlier this week, 400 groups urged President Obama to suspend deportations for those who would otherwise qualify for lawful status under the pending Senate immigration reform bill. On Wednesday, WBEZ (91.5 Chicago) kindly invited me to appear for their Afternoon Shift program to talk about immigration reform, deportation, and immigration court proceedings. Given my position as an immigration attorney, I was hoping to provide insight into the troubling practice of pursuing deportations when immigration reform may be on the horizon.
It is well documented that despite President Obama’s relatively recent commitment to passing immigration reform legislation in 2013, we have seen record high deportation numbers under his administration, peaking at 410,000 in 2012. With an estimated 1,100 deportations occurring every day, the need to cease deportations is abundantly clear considering the pending reform bill. At that rate, 2013 promises to match, if not surpass, the all-time high reached in 2012. The need to suspend deportations extends beyond the individuals in proceedings, as they have U.S. citizen family members dependent on them. Statistics from the Department of Homeland Security confirm that between July 1, 2010 and September 31, 2012, 204,810 parents of U.S. citizen children were removed.
While the statistics speak for themselves, I had a few more things to add during the WBEZ interview. Since it was my first radio interview, admittedly, I was nervous. However, a few seconds into it, I felt at ease and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I hope you too find it enjoyable and informative.
Listen to the interview here.
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A New Beginning: MILLA LAW, LLC:
Some of you may have noticed that I have had my longest lull between posts since starting this blog. (If you did not notice, shame on you!) For those who did notice, first let me apologize for the long silence. Second, let me explain by way of announcing, with great enthusiasm, that a few weeks ago I opened my own immigration law firm – MILLA LAW, LLC. After seven years of practice as an immigration attorney, I am thankful for the opportunities I have had to assist clients from all parts of the world with their immigration needs. As I take this next big step, I am excited for the challenges and years ahead, hopeful they will bring many more chances to help people worldwide – here and abroad – from all walks of life – achieve their goals in the United States.