I was recently invited to participate as an observer at Immigration Court with other faith leaders to demonstrate that our communities are watching, that we care, and that we are ready to bring back what we witness to our congregations.
That Monday morning at court was both heartbreaking and deeply moving. Of the roughly 28 families and individuals scheduled to appear, 22 did not show up. Our leader, Beth, suspected a rumor had circulated online that ICE officers might be outside, causing many to stay away out of fear. Such fears are not unfounded. In the past, the Homeland Security attorney has dismissed charges, thereby removing individuals and families from the court system, knowing ICE agents were waiting to immediately arrest and deport them.
Of the few who did appear, one family from Cuba asked for an extension to find an attorney. The other case involved a single mother from Mexico and her young sons, who made the painful decision to accept voluntary removal rather than risk harsher consequences.
We also learned about a troubling pattern of exploitation. In Latin America, the term notario means a trained legal professional, similar to a paralegal or attorney. In the U.S., however, a notary public is not authorized to give legal advice. Some individuals exploit this cultural misunderstanding, charging high fees, making false promises, and even harming cases by failing to submit essential court documents.
It was a sobering reminder that for many immigrants, the challenges go far beyond legal proceedings—they include fear, misinformation, and predatory practices. As followers of Christ, we are called to respond with compassion and justice: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…defend the rights of the poor and needy” (Proverbs 31:8–9). And we remember the call to hospitality: “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2).
My daughter Claire joined me. Claire is a second-year law student and recently completed a summer internship at the Immigrant Legal Defense Center in L.A. She also found the experience eye-opening and heart-rending. Join us in praying for all who are impacted by this crisis.
How You Can Help
- Learn & Share — Understand the difference between a U.S. notary public and a notario in Latin America. Share this knowledge to help protect immigrant neighbors from exploitation.
- Support Trusted Legal Aid — Refer immigrants to reputable organizations such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services, or the Immigrant Justice Corps.
- Volunteer Your Time — Join a court accompaniment program or help with translation and resource navigation.
- Advocate for Fairness — Contact local leaders and legislators about protecting immigrants from fraudulent legal services and ensuring safe access to court.
- Pray for Courage and Safety — Lift immigrant families in prayer for protection, wisdom, and hope.
Together, we can replace fear with trust, and isolation with community.
Pastor Jeff