25 Immigrant Children Face US Immigration Court
Summary
Twenty-five immigrant children, some as young as 3, appeared before a Texas immigration judge as their futures hinged on whether they could stay in the United States or face deportation. Advocates say weakened legal aid and faster court processes have made it harder for unaccompanied children to defend their asylum claims.
Key Points
- Twenty-five immigrant children appeared in a Texas immigration court, with some too young to understand the proceedings that could decide whether they stay in the US or are deported.
- A 13-year-old boy from Honduras cried after being told he was not eligible for asylum and was given time to appeal a deportation order.
- Advocates say the Trump administration has sped up hearings, reduced legal aid, and made the process more difficult for unaccompanied children.
- A long-standing $200 million legal services contract with the Acacia Center for Justice was allowed to expire, leaving gaps in representation for many children.
