South Brooklyn Sanctuary, a grassroots organization in Brooklyn, is preparing for potential policy changes and increased deportations under the incoming Trump administration. With a surge in volunteers, the organization is set to provide more deportation defense, ICE watch, and anti-family separation work. They operate as a pro se community, training migrants to represent themselves in legal proceedings with volunteer support. The organization has helped thousands of migrants since opening in 2022.
In response to the uncertainty ahead, South Brooklyn Sanctuary is fundraising for a full-time staff attorney and expanding their services to help migrants file motions to reopen their asylum cases. The organization is also training volunteers proficient in French and Arabic to accommodate migrants from African countries. Their goal is to remain knowledgeable and prepared for any policy changes that may impact the community.
One of the asylum recipients, Maria Meneses, has become a volunteer to assist other migrants in navigating the asylum process. She emphasizes the importance of providing specific details and evidence of violence or abuse to strengthen asylum cases. While recounting past trauma can be difficult, volunteers like Meneses are essential in guiding migrants through the complex legal system.
Despite the challenges, the increase in volunteers gives hope to the organization and the migrants they serve. For migrants like Emelis, who found support at South Brooklyn Sanctuary and obtained a work permit, the organization provides a vital lifeline in navigating the asylum process and building a new life in the United States.
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