Recent News on Immigration and How CATA Supports the Immigrant Community

In recent months, the federal government has continued to take harsher measures against immigrants. Currently, more than 60,000 people are detained by ICE, many of them facing only immigration-related charges without having committed any crime. In addition, thousands of immigrants are deported every month.

The government is also attempting to hire more ICE agents, offering bonuses of up to $50,000 and even student loan forgiveness. At the same time, there are efforts to exclude undocumented immigrants from the U.S. Census. This exclusion could disproportionately harm states like New Jersey, which have large immigrant communities. The Census is critical because it determines how many representatives each state has in Congress and how federal funding is distributed.

Another harmful proposal would prohibit undocumented families from participating in Head Start, a vital early education program for young children. Many states, including New Jersey, have joined a lawsuit to block this policy.

In Florida, a judge halted the construction of a detention center after ruling that the environmental studies required had not been completed and ordered the center closed and dismantled. However, another judge determined the center can still remain open since the government is appealing the decision.

And most recently, Justices from the Supreme Court have determined in an emergency decision that ICE agents can, for the meantime while this case continues to be challenged in the courts, use race, language spoken, job, and even physical location as a legitimate reason to stop and question someone’s immigration status.

At CATA, we work every day to defend immigrant rights and ensure families know where to turn for support. We provide information on their rights when interacting with immigration officials, resources for families with loved ones in detention, and guidance on how to stay connected during these difficult times. We also advocate for policies and laws that protect and strengthen immigrant communities.

Staying informed and engaged is one of the most powerful ways to show solidarity. By raising your voice, supporting policy change, and amplifying immigrant stories, you help create a more just and welcoming society. Together, we can ensure that immigrant communities are not forced to face these challenges alone.

Stay Informed – Follow updates on immigration policies and share reliable information with your networks.

Speak Up – Contact your local, state, and federal representatives to demand policies that protect immigrant families.

Support CATA’s Work – Volunteer your time, donate to our programs, or help spread the word so immigrant voices are heard and respected.

For more information, contact CATA’s office at 856-881-2507.

Meghan Hurley

Policy and Advocacy Organizer

CATA - The Farmworker Support Committee

856-881-2507

www.cata-farmworkers.org