Washington, D.C. – The Trump administration has terminated federal contracts with nonprofit organizations providing legal representation to roughly 26,000 unaccompanied immigrant children, according to a recent directive. More than 100 groups assisting minors navigating the U.S. immigration system without parents or guardians were ordered to halt services immediately.
The move follows the administration’s reinstatement of family detention policies two weeks earlier, further intensifying scrutiny over its immigration enforcement measures.
Advocates Condemn Decision
United We Dream, a leading immigrant rights organization, denounced the move in a sharply worded statement:
“Endangering children’s lives is unconscionable. After the disgraceful legacy of family separation, the Trump administration is now forcing children to face deportation proceedings alone—without legal counsel—against trained government attorneys. Cutting access to representation increases the risks of deportation, abuse, trafficking, and even death. Fair legal process should be guaranteed for everyone, especially children.”
The group demanded immediate restoration of funding for the program and called on elected officials at all levels to oppose the policy, framing it as an attack on immigrant rights.
Broader Immigration Crackdown
The decision aligns with the administration’s broader efforts to restrict immigration, including heightened enforcement and reduced protections for vulnerable groups. Critics argue the policy shift undermines due process, while supporters maintain it discourages unlawful entry.
Legal advocates warn that without representation, many children—including those eligible for asylum—could be deported before their cases are fairly evaluated. The long-term impact on affected minors remains a central concern.
Related topics:
- Immigration Process: Ways to Residency & Citizenship” href=”https://www.popularmigrant.com/archives/6091″>Legal Immigration Process: Ways to Residency & Citizenship
- Catholic Legal Network Condemns Trump Administration’s Mass Deportation Push
- AILA Condemns New Immigration Restrictions, Calls on Congress to Act
