People living in Florida and states around the country have had their ears to the ground for months in hopes of learning any and all news regarding potential policy reform. The process has been long and slow, and while the path to real U.S. immigration reform may seem to never end for some, there are promising signs that change is in the air. In fact, the Department of Homeland Security made a move recently that many are considering to be equal parts unexpected and encouraging.
Countless immigrant groups and activists have worked hard to show support for legislation that would account for DREAMERS and undocumented immigrants who currently live in or have been deported from the U.S. in recent years. As the House of Representatives continues to develop its own approach to immigration reform, people continue to speak up and protest.
Recently, nine immigrants from Mexico participated in a protest to highlight deportation issues in the U.S. As a result of their activism, the immigrants claim that they may face persecution if they go back to Mexico.
Details concerning the identities of the nine individuals are not provided. Though, reports do note that three entered Mexico specifically to take part in the protest. The other six had either been deported to Mexico or left the States on their own. Because they fear persecution, the nine immigrants are seeking asylum in the U.S.
It is not common for Mexican citizens to be granted asylum in the U.S., but the Department of Homeland Security has recognized the credibility of the threat to the group. A ruling on the group’s immigration status may not come until 2014.
Source: NPR, “9 Mexicans Win First Step In Asylum Claim,” August 6, 2013
