Frequently, because of inadequate access to legal
representation, they are unable to establish their
eligibility for legal protections in the United States,
resulting in their removal. In many cases, the risk of
domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or human trafficking
in their countries of origin remain unabated and victims
subsequently attempt to reenter the U.S. to protect
themselves and their children. Other victims of domestic and
sexual violence and trafficking may be deported because their
abusers or traffickers isolate them, or prevent them from
obtaining lawful immigration status. They are deported, with
some victims having to leave their children behind in the
custody of their abusers or traffickers. Under H.R. 3004,
these victims risk harsh criminal penalties for re-entry for
attempting to protect themselves and their children. On behalf of the courageous survivors of domestic violence,
sexual assault, dating violence, stalking and human
trafficking that our organizations serve, we urge you to vote
against H.R. 3003 and 3004, and to affirm the intent and
spirit of VAWA by supporting strong relationships between law
enforcement and immigrant communities, which is critical for
public safety in general, and particularly essential for
domestic and sexual violence victims and their children. Sincerely,
The National Taskforce to End Sexual and Domestic Violence.
Keywords matched
deported immigrant immigration