Portland, Oregon, has become a stronghold for people standing up for immigrants and their rights as President Trump’s new border czar prepares for more ICE raids. Despite Oregon’s sanctuary status, which means the state has laws to protect undocumented immigrants, President Trump’s policies are still causing fear and uncertainty for many.
In response, groups in Portland are organizing to help those at risk. With President Trump’s administration pushing changes to immigration laws, including questioning birthright citizenship, local organizations are making sure immigrants know their rights and have legal support.
Immigration Groups in Portland Offer Help
For people like Andrea Gonzalez, who was born in El Paso and raised in Mexico, the fight for immigrant rights is deeply personal. Gonzalez joined Portland’s Innovation Law Lab during Trump’s first term to help those facing immigration challenges. She says many people come to Oregon seeking safety, hoping to care for their families and live without fear.
Innovation Law Lab is one of the local organizations leading efforts to support immigrants. They hold workshops and clinics to educate people on how to protect their rights and navigate the complex legal system. The goal is to provide support and resources for asylum seekers, who often face difficult and unfair legal battles.
Local immigration attorney Erick Widman, who works with immigrants and asylum seekers, says that while there are many lawyers who want to help, there is still a lack of paid public defenders for immigrants. He wants to challenge common misconceptions, especially the harmful idea that all immigrants are people of color, which fuels negative and biased attitudes.
Local Legal Resources Are Stepping Up
Widman’s firm, along with other local law groups, hosts events that give people a chance to learn about their rights and get the legal support they need. These events offer advice and prepare people for what to do in case of an immigration raid or legal trouble.
“It’s about giving people peace of mind,” Widman said. “As lawyers, we are not just giving legal advice but also offering reassurance. We want to help people feel secure and informed about their options.”
As the situation continues to change, these local organizations are working hard to keep up with the growing demand for legal assistance and community support.
Oregon Faces Threat of New Immigration Laws
At the same time, some Republican lawmakers in Oregon are pushing for new laws that could roll back the state’s sanctuary status. These proposed laws would give local law enforcement more power to report people’s immigration status to federal authorities. However, so far, it seems these bills are not gaining enough support to move forward in the state legislature.
In response, local immigrant rights groups are working to make sure these laws do not pass, while continuing to provide legal help and advice to those in need.
Upcoming Event for Immigrants
To further support the community, Passage Immigration Law is hosting an “Open House/Know Your Rights” event on February 11, from 4-7 p.m. The event will provide important information about immigration rights, what to do during an ICE raid, and how to get legal help if needed. This event is another example of the many resources available for Portland’s immigrant community.
The Ongoing Fight for Immigrant Rights
As immigration laws continue to evolve under the Trump administration, local organizations in Portland remain committed to helping immigrants understand their rights and stay safe. While the future remains uncertain, these groups are providing vital support to ensure that immigrants don’t face legal challenges alone.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
