JEFFERSON COUNTY IMMIGRANT RIGHTS ADVOCATES

Immigration Seminar at Clallam Bay Corrections Center!

9/19/2019

We had an amazing time yesterday at the Immigration Seminar at Clallam Bay Corrections Center. Lawyers, community organizers and advocates from the inside and out came together for educational presentations, direct immigration legal consultations, community building, and to learn how to better fight back against the ways immigrants are oppressed within the WA DOC.

We were proud to be in attendance alongside amazing folks from (click for links):
APICAG - Asian and Pacific Islanders Cultural Awareness Group
Nuestro Grupo Cultural
STREETS
API Chaya
FIGHT
Washington Defender Association
Columbia Legal Services

Join us at a JCIRA Benefit Show October 3rd at Finnriver Farm & Cidery in Chimacum!

9/11/2019

Thursday, October 3, 6:00 to 8:30 pm, Benefit Dance for JCIRA at Finn River Farm and Cidery in Chimacum. World music by DJs David Bonobo and Johan, and the Port Townsend Village Drummers!

All contributions benefit JCIRA.

Bring your friends and family - children especially welcome. Enjoy the beautiful setting in Finn River in a comfortable covered space.
Sip local cider, eat yummy food. Share your commitment to helping immigrants here at home and on the Border.

JCIRA September Newsletter

9/8/2019

Our mission is to support the rights of immigrants through legal services, standing witness, advocacy and community education.

Upcoming Events!!

Wednesday, September 18, 7:00 to 8:30 pm, JCIRA Introductory Presentation to Port Ludlow at the Beach Club, 121 Marina View Dr, Port Ludlow. The target audience is residents of Port Ludlow and surrounding areas, but all are welcome.The agenda includes Rev. Paul Heins describing his experience as a volunteer working with immigrants at Annunciation House in El Paso, TX.
- For additional info.contact: Larry Jensen, lpjensen@abbnebraska.com or Linda Murphy, lindakaymurphy49@gmail.com
Thursday, October 3, 6:00 to 8:30 pm, Benefit Dance for JCIRA at Finn River Farm and Cidery in Chimacum. World Music DJ David Eggeler. All contributions benefit JCIRA. Bring your friends and family - children especially welcome. Enjoy the beautiful setting in Finn River in a comfortable covered space. Sip local cider, eat yummy food Share your commitment to helping immigrants here at home and on the Border.
- For more info contact: jcirawa@gmail.com or Libby Palmer libbypalmer2@gmail.com

________________________________________________________________________

In Case You Missed It... (Here are the highlights from JCIRA's monthly meeting in August)

Joanne Murayama presented LIFE BEHIND BARBED WIRE, the moving story of her family's experience in a Japanese-American concentration camp during World War II. Discussion afterward drew parallels and differences between those camps and the camps being used for detaining migrants at the Southern Border today.
Rapid Response Team Report (see article in this newsletter) -- an escalation in the retaliatory measures taken by the Trump administration has demanded an increased effort on JCIRA's part to be ever vigilant and ready to respond in support of our community.
End Financial Support of Detention Centers through divestment (see article in the August JCIRA newsletter)
Backpack Project Update (see article in the August JCIRA newsletter)

________________________________________________________________________

JCIRA'S Rapid Response Team (RRT) Works to Protect Local Immigrants
Members of RRT have been meeting and reviewing their training in response to Trump’s July 23 mandate to greatly expand “Expedited Removal” (ER). As of July 23, people anywhere in the country can be stopped by ICE or Border Patrol officers. These officials have been given complete authority to demand proof of citizenship, a visa, and/or proof that someone has been in the US for at least 2 years. They can then take immediate action, acting as on-the-spot judge, jury, and enforcer. It is unlikely that white people will be questioned, but all others must carry documents with them at all times – racial profiling at its worst. JCIRA wants to get the word out to as many immigrants as possible. For more details, or to join the Rapid Response Team, contact Katie at katiegagefranco@gmail.com, or Jean at jmwalat@gmail.com
________________________________________________________________________

"Public Charge" Explained
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a rule related to "public charge" on August 14, to take effect October 15, unless the numerous legal challenges prevent its implementation. The rule expands the list of publicly-funded programs, such as health benefits, nutrition programs, housing, and cash aid that would disqualify an applicant seeking admission into the United States or applying for adjustment of status. This provision of the law does not apply to all immigrants. Immigrants should consult with an immigration expert who understands public charge to learn whether the public charge rule even applies to them or their family. The Immigrant Legal Resource Center has prepared "Core Messages to Share with the Community":

In Spanish:https://www.ilrc.org/sites/default/files/resources/2019.08_carga_publica_mensajes_comunitarios-08.15.pdf
In English:https://www.ilrc.org/sites/default/files/resources/2019.08_public_charge_community_messages-08.15.pdf .

________________________________________________________________________

How You Can Help Right Now!
JCIRA's Postcard Writing Campaign:

PROTEST AGAINST THE PROPOSED NEW CHARGE RULE: The “Public Charge” test is used by immigration officials to decide whether a person can enter the US or get a green card. It considers age, health, family, financial status, education, whether there is a financial sponsor, and the person’s skills (including English language skills). Even more important is that officials will examine use of public programs including food stamps, housing assistance, Medicaid and cash assistance programs – even if the applicant is currently qualified to receive these benefits. Click here to see who you can write to make your position known

PROTEST AGAINST POLICY OF DETAINING CHILDREN INDEFINITELY: On August 21, 2019, the Trump Administration issued an Executive Order to detain migrant families and children for longer periods of time than currently allowed under the FLORES AGREEMENT, which has governed the care of migrant children in US custody for twenty years. Among other provisions it has prohibited the government from detaining families apprehended with children for more than 20 days. A federal judge has ruled against this Order but the Justice Department is currently appealing that decision. Click here for more info. and to send your postcards to those who need to hear from you.

SUPPORT H.R. 2662 - DEFUND THE “REMAIN IN MEXICO” POLICY: On May 10, 2019, Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16) introduced H.R. 2662, the Asylum Seeker Protection Act The legislation aims to remove funds from implementation of the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) policy, known as ‘Remain in Mexico.’ This Trump administration policy sends asylum seekers into dangerous conditions in Mexico to await their asylum hearing. During that time, they don’t have access to US lawyers to help them understand their case, they don’t have safe secure places to live, and they don’t have access to medical treatment. Despite the challenges of an increasing number of migrants at the southern border, the US response should uphold due process and never include cruelty. Click here for more info and to send postcards

SUPPORT H.R. 2415 Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act of 2019: The Act would:
- End the use of private prisons and county jails for immigration detention over a three-year phase-out period
- Ensure all immigrants receive individualized and fair bond hearings by ending the use of mandatory detention of certain immigrants and requiring DHS to establish probable cause of removable status within 48 hours of detention
- Improve detention standards for detention facilities housing immigrants by requiring DHS to match the civil detention standards set forth by the American Bar Association's Civil Immigration Detention Standards
- Require the DHS Office of Inspector General to conduct random spot checks of all immigration detention facilities and stiffen penalties for facilities found to be in violation of DHS' improved civil detention standards
- Require DHS to investigate all deaths of immigrants in its custody and issue a public report within 60 days Click here to learn more and to send postcards

URGE CONTINUED PROTECTION OF VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE AND TRAFFICKING: Years ago, Congress passed two important acts that protect vulnerable women and those subject to human trafficking. These are the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Trafficking Victim Protection Act (TVPA). Recently the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) proposed two changes to these Acts that would remove protections now given to persons applying to use those acts. Click here for more info and to send postcards

And lastly, HELP THE MISSISSIPPI COMMUNITY IMPACTED BY THE HUGE IMMIGRANT RAID
- Catholic Charities is directly assisting immigrant families: https://catholicharitiesjackson.org/ and go to “August 7 ICE Raids” at the top right of the website to see how you can help,
Or you could make a donation to:
- UFCW Local 1529 is providing truckloads of food and other goods to shelters as well as assisting union members with rent and bills. To contribute, write a check to UFCW Local 1529 Strike & Emergency Fund. Mail checks to: UFCW Local 1529 8205 Macon Rd. Cordova, TN 38018 (901) 758-1529

________________________________________________________________________

JCIRA Needs!

Research Needed -- GEO Group and CoreCivic operate several for-profit immigrant detention centers, some of the worst in the country, including the NW Detention Center in Tacoma.They are reputed to be donors to legislators at every level around the country. We need someone who can do some fact checking and find out whether they have donated money to any of our elected officials in Washington, at the state and federal levels. There are online sources where this information can be found, including www.opensecrets.org.
- If you are interested in doing this project (in the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, no protest signs required), please email jcirawa@gmail.com and someone will contact you. Thanks!

English Language Learning Volunteers Needed - Weekly classes for adult language learners begin on Wednesday, September 11, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, at the Mountain View Commons (YMCA in Port Townsend) in the classroom below the gym and pool. You can teach as a substitute or on a regular basis and will work with students one to one or in a small group. If you are interested, contact Nancy Zamberlin at zamberchar@hotmail.com, and please include your telephone number. New and returning students are welcome--just come to class! Thanks!

AN IMMEDIATE LOCAL REQUEST FOR HELP - Nancy Zamberlin, the wonderful ELL teacher in all 3 public schools - and the YMCA - needs a few items to make her very small space more kid-friendly AND private. Does anyone have 2-3 Shoji screens and a small, perhaps narrow display rack for books?
- Let Libby know libbypalmer2@gmail.com, and we can arrange to pick it up and deliver.

JCIRA's Ongoing Projects

COMMUNITY OUTREACH
- JCIRA rack cards (Spanish/English) are now being distibuted to schools, restaurants, libraries, social service offices and government agencies.The rack cards describe JCIRA's legal services and include phone numbers to make appointments for low cost or free consultations. Volunteers for distribution are needed.
- JCIRA Education Group is contacting principals, teachers and guidance counselors at local schools to share ways to help staff, students and their families when dealing with issues relating to immigrant rights.
- JCIRA Legal Defense and Family Support Fund assists immigrants, detainees and others with legal fees, medical and housing costs, and educational expenses. Please help spread the word
  - Contact jcirawa@gmail.com for details

________________________________________________________________________

On the Lighter Side

The best LA BAMBA you've ever heard!
The song started in Vera Cruz, Mexico, has spread around the world and now, in this latest version, musicians around the world join to perform it together:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5dkwQY_tk&list=RDddLd0QRf7Vg&index=5

JCIRA responds to hate crime in El Paso

8/16/2019

From the Port Townsend Leader, Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Our local immigrant rights organization, the Jefferson County Immigrant Rights Advocates (JCIRA), stands in solemn and shocked solidarity with the communities in El Paso.

We join the chorus of condemnation against those who participate in white nationalist groups, against those who support such groups, and especially against those in power whose rhetoric and statements encourage such groups or their members to act as in El Paso.

No one following the continued demonizing and dehumanizing of immigrants on our southern border can fail to understand that this tragic mass murder in El Paso on Saturday is but the latest harvest of the hatred and racism so freely spewed by leaders in public discourse. The deaths and injuries occurred in El Paso, but this evil act is causing fear and anxiety across our land including in Jefferson County.

We urge you to join us in making clear that all immigrants are welcome here and that we stand with them in this difficult time.

John Collins and Lawrence Jensen
Board members, JCIRA
Port Townsend

Click here for link to letter in the Leader

Lights for Liberty - Vigils Against Concentration Camps in Port Townsend and at Northwest Detention Center July 12th

7/14/2019

LIGHTS FOR LIBERTY: Vigil to End Concentration Camps this FRIDAY, July 12th, in Port Townsend

7/8/2019

Lights for Liberty: A Vigil to End Human Concentration Camps, will bring thousands of people to locations worldwide as well as to concentration camps across the country, into the streets and into their own front yards, to protest the inhumane conditions faced by migrants.

JOIN US!

Friday the 12th
5-6:30 p.m.
At the intersection of Adams and Water Streets in downtown Port Townsend (next to Nifty Fifty's)

#CloseTheCamps Protest in Port Angeles a Success! Stay Tuned - More Protests Planned for July 12th

7/2/2019

We will not be silent in the face of such horrors. Now is the time to speak up and fight back.

#ClosetheCamps Protest in Port Angeles Tomorrow, July 2nd!

7/1/2019

Join JCIRA and others TOMORROW, July 2nd, as we protest in to #ClosetheCamps in Port Angeles at Representative Derek Kilmer's office. Bring signs! Please share!

Protest starts at noon
Rep Kilmer’s Office
332 E 5th St
Port Angeles, WA 98362

If you want to carpool from Port Townsend, meet JCIRA at the Port Townsend Park n Ride at 10 am. We will set up informal carpools there.

Learn more about the protest here

Yoga Benefit for JCIRA July 4th in Port Townsend!

6/28/2019

Please join us!

Come do Yoga on the 4th with Terry Wagner at Unity Center for Spiritual Enrichment, 3918 San Juan Ave., Port Townsend, Washington 98368

9:30-11:00 a.m. All levels are welcome.

All proceeds will go to Jefferson County Immigrant Rights Advocates.

For info contact Terry at 360-821-8363.

CALL TO ACTION!

6/24/2019

Please call your Senators and Representatives NOW and let them know that the cruel treatment of immigrant children is not acceptable, now or ever. Reports this morning exposed the disturbing conditions at a Clint, Texas facility that holds at least 250 immigrant children, many of whom have families in the US waiting to take care of them.

The children in this unlicensed facility are hungry and sick.
They are not receiving adequate medical treatment or access to showers.
They are being punished by being forced to sleep on cold concrete floors.
Children of 7 and 8 are care-taking infants and toddlers

We cannot stand by while these atrocities happen. All children deserve high standards of safety and care and respect.

Our representatives and senators really do see every message that we send them, so please CALL NOW, and tell them your name and where you live and why this is NOT OKAY. They have the power to take a public stand for what is ethical and just:

Maria Cantwell: (202) 224-3441
Patty Murray: (202) 224-2621
Derek Kilmer: (202) 225-5916

Please watch this video report from Democracy Now this morning below for more talking points:

"They’re breaking law as to the conditions of detention.

They’re breaking the law as to the number of hours that they can keep the children in Border Patrol facilities.

They’re breaking the law as far as how long these children are being kept in ORR facilities.

They’re breaking the law by taking the children away from their families.

And they’re also breaking the law by transporting them on Texas state highways without the appropriate child seats and infant carriers and, you know, these booster seats that are required by law.

Everywhere I look, this administration is breaking the law.

And the Border Patrol employees that we talked to said they don’t understand why the American people aren’t outraged by the mismanagement that they’re experiencing."

(Warren Binford on Democracy Now! 6/24/19)

<<Previous