President Donald J. Trump’s first day in office on January 20th, 2025, was sealed by his passing forty-six presidential actions in line with “President Trump’s America First Priorities”. Keeping in line with his campaign promises to eliminate illegal immigration many of his executive orders are targeted at immigration. A few hours into his second term President Trump suspended US asylum, along with refugee, and other humanitarian programs. He also increased security screening of all foreign nationals seeking entry to the US and continued with his campaign to limit birthright citizenship. Let’s examine a few of Trump’s mandates that affect our communities.
Read moreWorking Immigrants
Year of the Snake
Happy Lunar New Year! As we leave behind the year of the Dragon and head into the year of the Snake, we are enjoying one of our favorite Lunar New Year displays at Atrium at Crown Towers in Melbourne, Australia. Though many think of snakes with negative connotations, Dr. Xuan Wang, a senior lecturer in Chinese studies at Cardiff University, puts us at ease explaining that the Snake is intuitive, mysterious, and very smart. Like all zodiac symbols, the snake is rich with symbolism. Known for shedding their skin, the Snake teaches us to shed off any toxicity and negativity as we head into the new year. Sounds promising!
Bronx Defenders’ Response to State of the State
Hello from Melbourne!
While some members of our team endure the cold winds and snow that have been swirling around our New York office, we are enjoying the January summertime in Australia. Between the summer heat and the excitement of the 2025 Australian Open, Melbourne is, as always, our happy place! In particular, we have been appreciating the views of hot air balloon tours floating over the city at dawn, dotting the skyline with bursts of color. Oh and did we mention the coffee? After too many “magics” we are buzzing over here…
USCIS Cancels COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) announced that effective January 22, 2025, the requirement for applicants seeking adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident status to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination on their Form I-693 Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record has been removed. USCIS also states that the Service will not issue Requests for Evidence (“RFEs”) or Notices of Intent to Deny (“NOIDs”) asking for proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Furthermore, I-485 Applications to Register Permanent Residency or Adjust Status will not be denied solely on the basis of the applicant’s failure to provide COVID-19 vaccination documentation.
New USCIS Guidance for O-1’s in the AI and Tech Fields
On January 8, 2025, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) released new guidance in its policy manual clarifying how the agency assesses evidence for O-1 visa eligibility for individuals with extraordinary ability. The O-1 visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the fields of science, arts, education, business, or athletics, as well as those who have achieved notable success in the motion picture or television industry, with recognition at a national or international level. The updates include detailed examples from evolving industries, particularly technology and creative sectors, recognizing the changing landscape of work and innovation, thereby allowing individuals in fields like artificial intelligence, digital media, and other emerging areas to better demonstrate their impact.
Read moreThe H-1B Visa Program is Dividing MAGA
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who until a few days ago were co-leaders of President-elect Trump’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency (“DOGE”) recently ruffled feathers amongst Trump’s MAGA supporters when Ramaswamy and Musk tweeted their support for the H1B program. In a surprising turn of events after having moved to limit H-1Bs during his first term, Trump responded by applauding the program, noting “I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I've been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It's a great program.”
Read moreLearn to Live Together
“moonGARDEN” by Lucion
After touring the world with stops in Athens, Brussels, Jerusalem, Moscow, Washington, Mexico City, Medellín, Houston, and Beijing, moonGARDEN has made its way to New York City. The art installation features glowing, color-changing spheres which were created by Lucion, a multimedia production firm based in Quebec. Currently planted at the Seaport District, the spheres are inspired by set theory, a branch of mathematics that Lucion says “illustrates the notions of sets and belonging.” Each city gets a new perspective, and New York’s installation is titled “Chronicles of the Abyss Walkers,” featuring an underwater themed marine exploration. A peek inside the porthole of one sphere reveals a new world, with giant jellyfish, robotic fish, and an intricate coral reef. The installation is sure to delight visitors of all ages, and art lovers can catch the exhibit through February 2025, before the garden travels to its next destination.