Texas sheriff signs U visa certifications for migrants flown to Martha's Vineyard

ACLU represents nine people flown to Martha’s Vineyard
 
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office has signed U visa certifications for all of the 49 migrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard on September 14. A U visa certification will allow all people on the flights to apply for status in the United States under a provision of law that protects victims of crime and encourages their cooperation with law enforcement. This important victory reflects the work of advocates including Rachel Self, Emily Leung and the team at the Justice Center of Southeast Massachusetts, Susan Church, and Julio Henriquez.
 
The ACLU of Massachusetts has been involved in the legal efforts to support people and families flown to Martha’s Vineyard since their arrival in Massachusetts—including legal representation of nine people seeking U visas, with assistance from the law firm WilmerHale. 
 
Carol Rose, executive director of the ACLU of Massachusetts, today released the following statement in response: 
 
“We are grateful for Sheriff Salazar’s recognition of the gravity of these events. These certifications are an acknowledgment of the wrongs done to our clients and a crucial step in helping them to chart their path forward. Immigrants are human beings, not political props. We are proud that Massachusetts received these immigrants with compassion, and look forward to continuing to work with our clients as they begin their lives in our community.”