WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, in a critical victory for unaccompanied children, a federal court issued a preliminary injunction halting the removal of Guatemalan children from the United States. The ruling ensures that these children cannot be deported without due process and recognizes their right to challenge government actions that threaten their safety and well-being.
The court also recognized the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights’ longstanding expertise and credibility, noting its unique role as Child Advocate under federal law and its advocacy experience for more than 7,000 children in custody over the years. The decision raised serious concerns about the government’s misleading claims and rushed removal efforts, signaling judicial skepticism.
In response, Gladis Molina Alt, Executive Director for the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights released the following statement:
“Today’s ruling is a powerful affirmation of the Young Center’s role as a trusted advocate for unaccompanied children. The court recognized our deep expertise and credibility. Every child deserves to have their case heard fairly and individually. We are alarmed by the government’s misleading claims and rushed removal efforts and won’t hesitate to act if similar threats arise against children of other nationalities. We will not stand by while children are targeted and are prepared to stand with every child.”
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The Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights is a non-profit organization that protects and advances the rights and best interests of immigrant children and advocates for an immigration system that treats children as children first.