Oasis Sues Federal Government #LetAsylumSeekersWork

Yesterday, Oasis Legal Services joined immigrant advocacy organizations CASA, the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP), Centro Legal de la Raza and Pangea Legal Services to file a federal lawsuit. This action aims to stop the U.S. government from implementing new rules that would drastically limit the ability of asylum seekers to work legally in the United States.  

These proposed changes threaten the livelihoods and well-being of countless individuals seeking refuge. By restricting access to work authorization, the new rules would force asylum seekers into a precarious situation, unable to support themselves while they await a decision on their cases. This waiting period can take many years, during which time they would be deprived of the dignity and stability that employment provides.

According to Oasis Executive Director, Caroline Kornfield Roberts, “These new rules could bar work authorization for more than 80% of Oasis’ clients while they potentially wait years for a decision in their case. LGBTQ+ asylum seekers have already suffered severe persecution, toxic homophobia and deep trauma in their countries of origin. They should not be forced to remain in the shadows." 

At Oasis, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to live with dignity and security, free from the fear of persecution. We are committed to fighting these harmful policies and advocating for a fair and just system that respects the humanity of those seeking refuge.

Click here to read the press release detailing how Oasis is fighting the new rule.  

Click here to read the full complaint filed with the court. 

Thank you for standing with us. Your support and solidarity make a difference.

Published July 21, 2020