SPOKANE, Wash. — Local nonprofits are seeing more and more people seeking help from immigration services.
On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Trump Administration’s use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act as a way to rapidly deport alleged gang members.
The 18th century act was used by the U.S. to detain Japanese nationals during World War II.
Trump used the Act in March to deport over 100 Venezuelan men. Some of the men have insisted they have no gang ties and no criminal record.
Over the last week, Manzanita House, a Spokane organization that offers legal aid to immigrant communities, said it had a line at the door as early as 4 a.m. with people hoping to get help on their immigration issues.
“[It shows] how desperate people are and how motivated they are to legalize their status. It’s really moving and impressive,” said Celia Vigil of Manzanita House.
The organization said it has received over 1,200 calls per month, more than double the amount of calls they received a year ago.
Megan Ballard, managing attorney for International Rescue Committee said they’ve also seen the high demand for legal services.
She said their clients are experiencing ‘daily fear’ over the mass deportations.
Christi Armstrong, executive director at World Relief Spokane said the fear is felt by refugees, lawful residents, and even citizens.
“I’ve even gotten calls from people who are naturalized citizens who are afraid that now they’ll lose their citizenship,” she said.
Vigil said she is concerned about the future.
“I absolutely have a heavy heart looking into the future, knowing the next few years are going to continue to be really challenging for immigrants and refugees of all kinds of backgrounds,” she said.
All three organizations are looking for volunteers to help support Spokane’s immigrant and refugee population. For more information and to volunteer, visit manzanitahousespokane.org, rescue.org, or worldrelief.org/spokane/.
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