The fate of nearly a million Venezuelans residing in the United States hangs in the balance as critical legal battles unfold in two federal courts located in Boston and San Francisco, California. These proceedings are scrutinizing key lawsuits concerning humanitarian parole and Temporary Protected Status (TPS). The outcomes in the upcoming weeks could decide whether thousands will lose their immigration protections or continue to seek other options within the country.
Both humanitarian parole and TPS have been essential lifelines for Venezuelan citizens fleeing the severe crisis in their homeland. However, these protections now face challenges, spearheaded by former President Donald Trump and other factions questioning their legality. The potential revocation of parole permissions also threatens thousands of Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans.
Immediate Suspension Sought for Humanitarian Parole in Boston
In Boston's federal court, beneficiaries and sponsors of the humanitarian parole program have recently requested a 14-day emergency suspension of the program's cancellation, as reported by Telemundo. While the judge has yet to issue a response, a decision is anticipated soon due to the urgency of the matter. A follow-up hearing is scheduled for Monday, April 7, where the court will be urged to keep the program active until the full litigation is resolved.
"The abrupt elimination of this program would cause enormous harm," stated Adela de la Torre, an attorney with the Justice Action Center. "The actions of the Trump administration are neither appropriate nor legally sound."
Current beneficiaries retain legal status for two years, during which they can adjust their status. However, a new directive mandates leaving the country by April 24 for those not having initiated this adjustment process.
Defending TPS for Venezuelans in San Francisco
Simultaneously, in San Francisco, a separate group of attorneys has presented arguments to prevent the cancellation of TPS for Venezuelans, which currently offers protection to approximately 350,000 individuals. Advocates have urged the judge to sustain the TPS while the case proceeds, emphasizing that its removal without a solid legal foundation would devastate the community.
Adelys Ferro, director of the Venezuelan American Caucus, stated to Telemundo, "Venezuela remains a country that people cannot return to, and the 600,000 Venezuelans with TPS here are law-abiding, not criminals."
If no injunction is granted, TPS protections are also set to expire on April 7, potentially leaving hundreds of thousands vulnerable to deportation or loss of employment and livelihoods.
Legal Precedent and a Community on Edge
Immigration lawyers, like Claudia Cañizares, believe both cases are strongly supported by legal precedent. Federal courts have previously ruled in favor of parole, reinforcing the Biden administration's authority to implement these measures. "I wouldn't be surprised if judges now also recognize that abruptly canceling these protections is disproportionate and harmful," she commented to the news outlet.
As judicial decisions are awaited, anxiety grows among Venezuelans in the U.S. who face the real possibility of falling into irregular status in mere weeks unless courts halt the government's decisions. Additionally, with the chavista regime resuming acceptance of deportation flights, there's a risk that individuals may be returned to confront the communist ideologies of dictator Nicolás Maduro.
Key Questions About Immigration Protections for Venezuelans
What is the current legal situation for Venezuelans under TPS and humanitarian parole in the U.S.?
The legal status of Venezuelans under these programs is uncertain as federal courts in Boston and San Francisco are deliberating on challenges to the humanitarian parole and TPS protections. Decisions are expected soon, which will determine if these protections continue or are revoked.
Why are these immigration protections at risk of being canceled?
The protections are being challenged due to legal actions initiated by former President Donald Trump and others who question their legality. These challenges are currently being contested in federal court.
What could be the impact if TPS and humanitarian parole are revoked?
If revoked, hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans could lose their legal status, face deportation, or lose their jobs and means of livelihood. This could lead to significant destabilization within the affected communities.