Faith Leaders Stand by Migrants in Immigration Courts

Rev. Jason Cook, dressed in his traditional clerical attire complete with a vivid stole, was seen at the immigration court in Santa Ana last Friday. He came from Tapestry, a Unitarian Universalist congregation.

For several weeks now, religious leaders from various faiths have been present in courts across Orange County, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Their aim is to support immigrants during deportation proceedings. This initiative began when it became clear that many asylum seekers were being unexpectedly detained and sent to far-off detention centers without a chance to prepare or bid farewell to loved ones.

These faith representatives aim to console migrants and introduce a moral perspective to the court sessions. Their silent prayers from the courtroom benches serve as a testament to their solidarity.

On a typical day, clergy wander the courthouse corridors, watching for Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. If plainclothes officers are noticed outside courtrooms, it usually indicates that those inside are under threat of immediate deportation.

While Rev. Cook understands the presence of religious figures won't sway legal outcomes, in a recent case in San Diego, ICE officers left when clergy arrived. Their primary goal is to provide spiritual solace and let immigrants know they are remembered and supported.

Cook expressed that a significant belief in their faith revolves around showing kindness and hospitality to immigrants. They appeal to a moral authority higher than ICE.

Many of the migrants facing these challenges are seeking asylum, using the CBP One mobile application facilitated by the Biden administration in early 2023. This app allows migrants to schedule meetings with U.S. officials upon reaching Mexico and submit personal details for screening.

Upon taking office, President Trump granted ICE the right to expedite the deportation of numerous migrants. The administration aimed to rescind protections for numerous asylum seekers from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.

Faith leaders assert that this outreach aligns with their mission. Many migrants attend their church services, and some places of worship have offered shelter to those facing deportation risks. In Los Angeles, religious figures have coordinated food distributions for those scared to go outdoors and arranged prayer events at federal sites.

In the Inland Empire, clergy actively distribute 'Know Your Rights' cards among migrant workers in vineyards.

Joseph Tomás Mckellar, heading PICO California, highlighted, 'History shows clergy have been pivotal in pursuing moral justice worldwide.'

On June 11, the Catholic Diocese of San Diego sought collaboration with local clergy to bolster their support for migrants.

Father Scott Santarosa noted overwhelming interest following a diocesan letter, prompting a limitation on clergy participants. A Mass took place on World Refugee Day before they proceeded to court.

Father Santarosa stated, 'Our intention wasn't to obstruct but to show presence, offering silent support to migrants and refugees.'

A Venezuelan asylum seeker, fearing repercussions, attended her first hearing, supported by clergy. Though anxious about her situation, the presence of pastors provided comfort—a sentiment echoed as she left the courtroom with a scheduled future date.

Rev. Cook attends the court at least twice weekly, witnessing initial reluctance among ICE officers to confront clergy. However, over time, confrontations have grown; clergy are now required to maintain distance. An incident even saw an ICE officer push a clergy member against a wall.

Determined, the clergy continue, believing their actions resonate with their mission of faith. 'We're here as a moral reminder, which can invoke reflection,' Cook remarked.

Dave Gibbons, having paused court visits after a challenging experience, remains resolved. He sees their efforts as a gospel-centric mission—standing with the marginalized is sacred work.

Rev. Terry LePage makes near-daily visits, distributing rights-awareness leaflets to migrants heading for hearings.

On one occasion, clergy met a Haitian man attending a hearing without legal counsel. Despite his optimism, the judge dismissed his case, and he was swiftly detained by federal officers as clergy offered final words of encouragement.