A federal judge in Maryland has partially blocked the arrest of migrants in places of worship, impacting the Trump administration’s immigration policies. The decision protects religious communities such as the Quakers, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, and the Sikh Temple, who argued that the policy infringed on their religious freedom.
Below, we’ll explain in simple terms what this measure means, how it affects immigrants, and what the next steps are.
Judge Theodore Chuang granted an injunction preventing authorities from arresting immigrants in places of worship belonging to these three religious communities.
The Trump administration had removed restrictions on immigration operations in churches, schools, and hospitals.
Religious groups sued the government, alleging that this measure violated their constitutional rights.
The judge’s decision reinstates the protections outlined in the 2021 memorandum issued by the Biden administration.
The judge argued that the presence of immigration agents in temples has caused fear and intimidation, affecting participation in religious services.
This order does not apply to all religious temples but only to those belonging to the plaintiff communities:
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers): A Christian group with a pacifist tradition.
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship: A network of evangelical churches with many immigrants among its members.
Sikh Temple of Sacramento, California: Where approximately half of the attendees are immigrants.
How Does This Measure Affect Immigrants?
Greater security for worshippers: People can attend temples without fear of being detained.
Does not apply to all places of worship: It only protects spaces belonging to the plaintiff groups.
Does not prevent raids in other places: Authorities can still make arrests elsewhere.
This measure does not change immigration laws, but it provides temporary protection for migrants who attend these temples.
In 2021, the Biden administration established a memorandum prohibiting immigration operations in:
Churches and religious temples
Schools and universities
Hospitals and medical facilities
This document ensured that immigrants could access these places without fear. The Trump administration eliminated this protection in 2025, arguing that immigration laws should be enforced everywhere without restrictions.
What Do Supporters and Opponents of the Measure Say?
Religious groups and pro-immigrant activists:
They believe Trump’s policy violated the right to religious freedom.
They denounce that immigration operations create fear and prevent migrants from practicing their faith.
Trump administration and its allies:
They argue that laws must be enforced in all spaces without exceptions.
They claim that allowing “protected areas” enables criminals to evade deportation.
The current measure is temporary and applies only to certain temples.
The government is expected to appeal the decision, which could bring the case to the Supreme Court.
Other religious communities may file similar lawsuits.
Judge Theodore Chuang’s decision is a partial victory for migrant rights and religious freedom. However, the legal battle is not over and could reach the Supreme Court.
If you are an immigrant and have questions about how this measure affects you, it is important to consult with an immigration attorney.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Help You Obtain Your Papers in the United States?
At Inmigración Ok Abogados, we provide the help you need. We are a law firm with extensive experience assisting people like you in legally establishing themselves in the country.
Our firm is not only known for its professionalism and efficiency, but we also offer payment plans to ensure that financial barriers do not keep you from achieving your dreams. Inmigración Ok Abogados is committed to you, and our main goal is to ensure that you have the best legal representation for your case.
Let us be part of your journey toward a better and safer life in the United States. Our team is ready to answer all your questions and guide you through every step of the process. And the best part? Your initial case review is completely free!
Don't wait any longer—take the first step toward your future in the United States. Message us now on WhatsApp at +1 (908) 585-4523! Our team looks forward to learning about your case and providing the guidance you deserve. We will review your case at no cost.
Source: infobae.com
Asesoría por WhatsApp
コメント