Editor’s note: Here is a look at immigration-related news around the U.S. this week. Questions? Tips? Comments? Email the VOA immigration team: ImmigrationUnit@voanews.com.
Chicago’s response to migrant influx frustrates its Blacks
The closure of Wadsworth Elementary School in 2013 was a blow to residents of the majority-Black neighborhood it served, symbolizing to them a city indifferent to their interests. And when the city reopened Wadsworth last year to shelter hundreds of migrants without seeking community input, it added insult to injury. Across Chicago, Black residents are frustrated that their long-standing needs are not being met while the city’s newly arrived are cared for with a sense of urgency, and with their tax dollars. The Associated Press reports.
White House weighs immigration relief for spouses of US citizens
The White House is weighing ways to provide temporary legal status and work permits to immigrants in the U.S. illegally who are married to American citizens, three sources familiar with the matter said on Monday, a move that could energize some Democrats ahead of the November elections. Reuters reports.
Reactions to UK’s new migrant law, Botswana proposal
UN criticizes Britain’s Rwanda migrant law, as boat tragedy shows dangers of crossing
After years of political wrangling and court battles, British lawmakers passed legislation on Monday that the government hopes will allow it to deport asylum-seekers arriving in across the English Channel to Rwanda for processing. As Henry Ridgwell reports from London, the dangers of the migrant crossings were underlined just hours after the law was passed. Henry Ridgwell reports for VOA from London.
UN human rights office objects to Britain’s plan to transfer asylum-seekers to Rwanda
The U.N. human rights office on Tuesday objected to Britain’s plan to transfer asylum-seekers to Rwanda, saying it sets a perilous human rights and refugee protection precedent.
Two UN officials call on UK to reconsider Rwanda asylum plan
Two top United Nations officials called on the United Kingdom to reconsider a plan to send asylum-seekers to Rwanda. They say the move would have a harmful impact on human rights and refugee protection. A controversial measure on the matter was approved. Rwanda has welcomed the decision.
Botswana rejects controversial UK proposal on asylum-seekers
Botswana says it has rejected a proposal to accept asylum-seekers from the United Kingdom, an arrangement similar to the one Rwanda has agreed to. The U.K.’s House of Lords on Monday passed a bill that will see migrants deported to Rwanda in a move condemned by human rights activists and the United Nations. Mqondisi Dube reports for VOA from Botswana.
Immigration around the world
News Brief
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced this week the application period for the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program, which provides funding for citizenship preparation programs in communities across the country.
