News, statements, and expert commentary from Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) on issues affecting unaccompanied and separated children.
News, statements, and expert commentary from Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) on issues affecting unaccompanied and separated children.
The New Yorker: How Trump Is Trying to Weaken Migrant Children’s Legal Defense
The New Yorker examines the administration’s efforts to redirect legal services for unaccompanied children to providers with limited immigration-law experience and capacity. KIND President Wendy Young underscores the stakes, warning that representing children in immigration court requires specialized expertise because the consequences can be life or death.
Politico: The Trump administration is reducing legal pathways for immigrant kids to stay in the US
POLITICO reports on legal changes that are narrowing protections for unaccompanied children seeking asylum or Special Immigrant Juvenile Status. KIND Senior Policy Adviser Jennifer Hojaiban warns that attorneys may need to challenge these decisions in federal court, even as funding disruptions make it harder for organizations to sustain representation through appeals.
Politico: In a suburban Virginia courtroom, the immigration system’s strains come to life
POLITICO examines how funding disruptions and rising caseloads are leaving more children to face immigration court without attorneys. KIND President Wendy Young warns that the system is shifting away from protection, while KIND attorney Sofia Lorenzo describes the strain the funding crisis is placing on legal representation.
Bloomberg Law: Trump’s HHS Ordered to Pay Migrant Child Legal Aid Groups
Bloomberg Law examines the legal fight over withheld funding for organizations representing unaccompanied children. KIND President Wendy Young raised concerns that the transition to new providers remains unclear, leaving thousands of active cases in limbo.
KIND’s Tess Reagan told Connecticut Public that children held in federal custody are often scared, confused, and beginning to lose hope after months separated from their families. KIND will continue providing legal support where it can, while calling on other attorneys to help meet the growing need.
