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| Dear Friend, Even in challenging times, hope has a way of shining through. This June, I am reminded that progress is often built through perseverance, partnership, and a shared commitment to justice. While many immigrant families continue to face uncertainty and hardship, this month also brought moments of hope and meaningful achievement for our organization and the communities we serve. One of the most significant milestones was JFAI’s first successful habeas corpus case in federal district court, resulting in the release of a client after nine months in detention. We were also honored to receive the AILA Texas Chapter’s Pro Bono Champion Award, a recognition of our team's dedication to providing pro bono legal services to those most in need who might otherwise go without representation. In addition, our staff continued to engage with community partners, participate in professional development opportunities, and welcome new volunteers who share our commitment to serving immigrant families. This month is also personally meaningful for me as I celebrate 11 years with this great organization. It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated colleagues, volunteers, donors, and community partners who believe in the dignity and worth of every person. I genuinely appreciate your trust and support, which have enabled us to expand our impact and continue responding to the evolving needs of our communities. These accomplishments are not ours alone. They are the result of a community that believes in justice, compassion, and opportunity. As we look ahead, we stay focused on our mission, committed to standing with immigrants, and determined to meet the challenges before us with courage. Thank you for being part of this journey. With Gratitude, Joy Green
Executive Director
Justice for all Immigrants |
| | A Milestone Victory for JFAI and One Client’s Freedom This month, JFAI celebrated a significant milestone: our first successful habeas corpus case in federal district court; a habeas corpus petition is a legal procedure which allows an individual to challenge their detention. For Miguel,* a 56-year-old client who has lived in the United States for more than 30 years, the victory meant something even more important: his freedom. After spending nine months in immigration detention, Miguel was released following legal advocacy by Staff Attorney Alexandra Santamaria Caplan. JFAI successfully argued that there was no significant possibility of his removal in the reasonably foreseeable future, making his continued detention unlawful. Miguel had lived under an Order of Supervision for 26 years because there was no country available to receive him. However, during a routine ICE check-in in 2025, he was unexpectedly detained. "This case was a powerful reminder of why legal representation matters," said Alexandra. "Seeing our client regain his freedom after nearly a year in detention was incredibly meaningful. I am proud of what we were able to accomplish and grateful to be part of a team fighting for justice and due process." This victory also comes at a challenging moment. On June 26th, the Texas Supreme Court temporarily ordered Harris County to pause funding for the Immigrant Legal Services Fund (ILSF), which supports organizations, including JFAI, in providing legal representation to low-income residents facing immigration detention. Although the order is temporary while litigation continues, the funding pause places critical legal services at risk for individuals whose freedom may depend on having an attorney. Miguel's case is a prime example of what is possible when individuals have access to skilled legal representation. Every successful outcome reflects the dedication of our team and reinforces why accessible counsel is essential for protecting due process and ensuring that no one is forced to navigate complex immigration proceedings alone. JFAI remains committed to defending the rights and dignity of immigrant communities. We will continue working alongside our partners to deliver high-quality legal representation and advocate for continued funding for these vital services.that Together, we can continue building pathways to justice for immigrant families. If you would like to help make stories like Miguel’s possible, please consider supporting JFAI’s mission. See more client stories here. | Visit our work, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. *Name and photo changed for privacy reasons. |
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| | This summer, JFAI is excited to welcome Sierra Abbasi to our team. Originally from Savannah, Georgia, Sierra recently moved to Houston and brings with her a personal connection to immigration: her parents immigrated to the United States from Singapore and Pakistan. Inspired by their journey, Sierra was drawn to JFAI for the opportunity to learn while making a meaningful difference in the lives of immigrant families. Since joining JFAI in early June, Sierra is supporting our work by helping digitize forms and streamline processes to make legal services more accessible to clients. She is particularly passionate about naturalization and deportation defense work, recognizing how difficult it can be for many individuals to navigate the immigration system without adequate resources or representation. “I aim to help make accessing legal services more accessible to people of all socioeconomic backgrounds,” Sierra shared. “I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to navigate the immigration system with support and dignity.” The internship has already strengthened Sierra’s interest in immigration law and public service. Whether through a future legal career or pro bono advocacy, she hopes to continue supporting immigrant communities long after her time at JFAI. We are grateful for Sierra’s dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to serve, and we look forward to the impact she will make throughout the summer. |
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| | JFAI Joins Community Discussion on Flexible Financial Assistance |
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| On June 11, JFAI Executive Director Joy Green participated as a panelist in the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (HCDVCC) Community Meeting, Making Safety Possible: The Power of Flexible Financial Assistance. The discussion brought together community leaders and service providers to examine how direct financial support can help survivors of domestic violence overcome barriers and move toward greater stability. Representing JFAI, Joy shared perspectives on the challenges many survivors face when rebuilding their lives, particularly when financial insecurity limits their options. The conversation highlighted how flexible financial assistance can help cover essential needs such as housing, transportation, childcare, and other expenses that often stand between survivors and long-term independence. "For many survivors, safety is not just about leaving a dangerous situation. It is also about having access to the resources and support needed to rebuild their lives," said Joy Green. "Partnerships like these help us create pathways to safety and stability for immigrant survivors of domestic violence." |
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| |  | JFAI Receives Pro Bono Champion Award During the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Annual Conference 2026, held June 17–20, JFAI was honored to receive the AILA Texas/New Mexico/Oklahoma Chapter Pro Bono Champion Award. The award recognizes organizations that exemplify the spirit of pro bono service by providing free legal assistance, promoting access to justice, and serving immigrant communities that might otherwise go without representation. This recognition reflects the dedication of our attorneys, legal staff, volunteers, donors, and supporters who help make this work possible. JFAI attorneys attended the AILA Annual Conference, the nation's largest immigration law conference. The event brought together immigration attorneys and advocates from across the country to learn, collaborate, and stay informed on the latest developments in immigration law. Through specialized training sessions, our team gained valuable knowledge and strategies to better serve immigrant communities. "Attending AILA's Annual Conference is an opportunity to learn from colleagues across the country and strengthen our advocacy for clients," said José Luis Martinez, JFAI's Legal Director. "Receiving the Pro Bono Champion Award was extra special because it recognizes the collective effort of our entire team and our commitment to ensuring access to justice for all." |
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| |  | Every immigration journey is unique, and every story has the power to inspire, educate, and create meaningful connections. Through our "Tell Us Your Story" initiative, we invite clients, supporters, volunteers, donors, and community members to share their experiences and reflections related to immigration and their connection to JFAI. Visit https://www.justiceforallimmigrants.org/tellusyourstory to share your story with us. Whether you have benefited from our services, volunteered your time, supported our mission, or witnessed the impact of immigration in your community, we would love to hear from you. With your permission, selected stories may be featured in our newsletter, website, social media, and fundraising campaigns to help raise awareness and highlight the impact of this work. Thank you for being part of our community and for helping us tell the stories that matter. |
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| Supreme Court Allows Trump Administration to Reinstate Border Asylum Restrictions The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6–3 to allow the Trump administration to revive a policy limiting access to asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border while legal challenges continue. The decision is expected to restrict humanitarian protections for many people fleeing violence and persecution, leaving vulnerable families in greater uncertainty.
Read the full story here. Senate Advances $72 Billion Immigration Enforcement Funding Bill The U.S. Senate advanced a $72 billion reconciliation bill to fund Department of Homeland Security immigration agencies, including ICE and Border Patrol, through 2029. The measure ultimately moved forward as Republicans prioritized immigration enforcement funding.
Read the full story here. Texas Lawsuit Ends Administrative Closure A lawsuit led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton successfully challenged a Biden-era rule that allowed some deportation cases to be temporarily paused. Immigration advocates warn the decision could limit flexibility for immigrants pursuing legal pathways to remain in the United States.
Read the full story here. |
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| | |  | |  | | THANK YOU! As always, we would like to express our appreciation to our supporters, whose donations have a profound impact on the lives of our clients. |
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| | Justice for all Immigrants
2220 Broadway Street | Houston, Texas 77012
713-454-6470 | [email protected] |
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