For “New Americans,” the journey is often marked by two types of trauma: the initial trauma they fled, and the “renewed pain” they encounter upon arrival in the U.S. This renewed pain is often rooted in institutional racism and systematic prejudice, particularly in detention settings and during asylum proceedings.
Systemic Bias in the Immigration System
Our work with grassroots partners at the Southern Border confirms that outcomes are not uniform. Factors like the region of origin, language spoken, and racial identity influence detention length, bond decisions, and access to services.
- Detention Disparity: Reports consistently show that asylum seekers of color often face longer detention times and higher bond amounts than others, even with similar legal circumstances.
- Trauma Reinforcement: Placing trauma survivors in jail-like settings, compounded by indifferent medical care (as our founder experienced), is a form of institutional abuse that exacerbates existing mental health conditions.
ELOIM’s Advocacy: Holding the Powerful Accountable
Our mission is clear: challenge injustice and defend freedom. We use data and on-the-ground experience to hold state and federal agencies accountable. We advocate for:
- Culturally Competent Staffing: Pushing for better training and oversight within detention and border facilities.
- Alternatives to Detention (ATD): Campaigning for policies that favor community-based case management and hosting over costly, damaging detention.
We are dedicated to ensuring that the U.S. truly lives up to its promise of equal treatment and human dignity, regardless of where a person was born.
