As 2012 comes to a close, we reflect on the many challenges that this year brought, but also the many successes. NIJC brought cases to the Supreme Court, helped protect detained immigrants from sexual assault, gave legal guidance to hundreds of immigrant youth, challenged excessively harsh enforcement policies, prevented the separation of families, and united families who had been separated for years. NIJC along with you and many courageous immigrants and advocates across the country opened the door for meaningful change in the rhetoric, attitudes, and policies surrounding the U.S. immigration system.
Take a look at some highlights of what we’ve accomplished together in 2012!
Click here to see an infographic timeline of NIJC’s nearly 30-year history
Now, we all have to focus on the year ahead. 2013 will be an important year—we must work to expand due process protections and access to legal counsel for immigrants as the demand for legal services increases; we need to continue assisting immigrant youth applying for temporary protection through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, and create a roadmap to citizenship for all new Americans; and above all, we have a chance to create a common-sense immigration system that benefits new and life-long Americans alike.