New York, NY—Today, the Trump administration cut funding to a program that provides legal representation to unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. This decision immediately halts funding for legal assistance to tens of thousands of children under the age of 21 years navigating the immigration system without a parent or guardian.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“No child should have to argue for their safety and future without an attorney by their side. The Trump administration’s decision to cut this essential service undermines due process, harms vulnerable children, forces them to relive a cycle of trauma, and potentially puts their lives at risk. It is unimaginable to expect a child to stand in court alone, facing a judge, government attorneys, and complicated legal procedures without understanding their rights or how to defend themselves. Without legal representation, their chances of securing protection drop dramatically. New York must step up where the federal government failed. That is why we urgently need the State Senate and State Assembly to pass the Access to Representation Act and the BUILD Act, and to fully invest $165 million in legal services funding. By doing so, we can ensure that all people, regardless of age, have access to legal representation in immigration court and a fair chance at safety, stability, and freedom.”