As U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term reaches its first 100 days, significant changes in the immigration system are causing widespread concern. Increased immigration enforcement and the introduction of the “gold card” U.S. residency visa program for wealthy foreigners have reshaped the landscape for immigrants and those who support them.
Lawyers specializing in immigration law are facing new challenges as policies shift rapidly. The heightened enforcement has led to a surge in deportation cases, leaving many migrants uncertain about their future. “Every day brings a new policy or executive order,” says Maria Sanchez, an immigration attorney in Los Angeles. “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to advise our clients when the rules keep changing.”
The “gold card” visa program aims to attract affluent individuals, but critics argue it creates a disparity between wealthy foreigners and everyday migrants seeking a better life. Meanwhile, immigrants with green cards are experiencing fear and uncertainty. Many worry about the stability of their residency status and the potential for policy changes that could affect their ability to remain in the country.
Ahmed Ali, a green card holder from Sudan, shares his concerns: “I came to the U.S. to build a better future for my family. Now, I don’t know if we’ll be allowed to stay. It’s stressful not knowing what will happen.”
Migrant communities across the nation are organizing to support each other, but the rapid policy shifts make it difficult to keep up. Advocacy groups are calling for clearer guidelines and more compassionate policies that consider the human impact of these changes.
“We need a fair immigration system that doesn’t instill fear in people who have made their lives here,” emphasizes Jessica Lee, an organizer with a migrant rights group. “The constant changes are not only affecting migrants but also the fabric of our communities.”
The debate over immigration policy continues to be a contentious issue in the U.S., with far-reaching implications for migrants, legal professionals, and society at large. As the administration moves forward with its agenda, those affected are left navigating an uncertain future.
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Lawyers, migrants struggle under rapid changes in immigration system
cgtn.com