California, like many states, is overwhelmed by the rising volume of migrants. Cities are struggling to provide shelter and resources to these individuals, and also to process the rising asylum requests. As so, many migrants are faced with unideal circumstances and concerns over the fate of their futures in the U.S.
To avoid this uncertainty, we encourage immigrants to contact an experienced immigration attorney prior to entering the United States, to discuss streamlined processes for achieving legal status. Asylum seekers who are already in the U.S. should consider consulting with an asylum attorney to increase their chances of a successful case.
Open-Air Detention Centers
In Jacumba Hot Springs, California, nearly 200 migrants are being held in “open-air detention centers” (OAD) while they await processing for asylum status.
Conditions at these sites are brutal, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 30 degrees. Migrants are reliant on volunteers for necessities, with little supplies granted from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents (CBP). They are receiving little to no instructions as to when they will be moved to an official processing facility. Thus, leaving migrants in a vulnerable position of complying with federal agents to increase their chances of receiving asylum when supplies are at a low.
San Diego International Airport ‘Shelter’
While the migrant population continues to rise, San Diego is simultaneously tackling a large homeless population which has maxed out the capacity of the city’s shelters. With nowhere to go, hundreds of migrants have established shelter at the San Diego International Airport.
Bill Wells, mayor of the neighboring city El Cajon, has expressed concerns over the lack of support and resources given by Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Biden administration.
Implementation of Barriers
To combat the rise of migrants at the Tijuana River-U.S. border, CBP is implementing a temporary barrier while it constructs a permanent fixture. The fixture will ideally limit the large groups of migrants who have been swimming across the canal in an attempt to enter the U.S.
The permanent structure will also allow Border Patrol agents to traverse from both sides.
Mexico has also implemented a chain fence on their end of the border to address this influx.
Connect with a California Asylum Attorney
Migrants, refugees, and asylum-seekers are all facing unique struggles in establishing residency and legal statuses. It is advisable to take a proactive approach when possible by meeting with a California asylum attorney. A legal professional will be able to provide personalized and results-oriented guidance to secure the most successful outcome.
Reeves Immigration Law Group has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Walnut Creek dedicated to serving our local immigrant communities. Our team of asylum attorneys are up-to-date with the latest policies and regulations and work tirelessly to help all migrants and their families achieve their immigration goals.
To speak with a California asylum attorney on your individual case, contact our offices today.
