Attorney Urges Afghan Immigrants to Prepare for Trump-era Challenges

Pleasanton, CA — A legal awareness seminar aimed at helping Afghan immigrants navigate the challenges of U.S. immigration laws was held in Pleasanton, California, on Sunday. The event, organized by the Afghan-American Social Organization, was attended by a diverse group of Afghan immigrants residing in Alameda County, with both in-person and online participation.

The seminar focused on educating newly arrived Afghan immigrants about their legal rights and the resources available to protect their immigration status under the current U.S. administration. Omar Aziz, Executive Director of the Afghan-American Social Organization, explained that the goal of the event was to ensure that immigrants are prepared to handle the complexities of U.S. immigration policies under Trump’s adminstration.

“Many Afghan refugees who fought alongside American forces have unique legal challenges, and this seminar aims to provide them with the knowledge they need to protect their legal status,” Aziz said. “The legal landscape is particularly challenging under the current administration, and it’s important that immigrants understand their rights and the necessary steps they must take.”

The seminar’s key speakers, Spojmiei Nasiri, an immigration attorney, shared vital legal information on the processes of applying for asylum, extending humanitarian parole, and securing permanent residency. She also addressed concerns regarding deportation, emphasizing that Afghan immigrants without criminal records should not fear deportation.

“The deportation process is a lengthy one,” Nasiri explained. “The priority for deportation under this administration is focused on individuals with criminal convictions and court orders for removal. If you don’t have a criminal record, you should not be worried about deportation.”

Naseri also discussed the importance of keeping legal documents up to date and readily available in case of encounters with law enforcement. She recommended that immigrants always carry physical or digital copies of their legal documents on their phones to avoid complications in the event of an inspection.

The seminar also highlighted the importance of maintaining contact with legal professionals when dealing with complex immigration cases. Participants were advised to seek legal advice before making any decisions regarding their immigration status.

As part of the event, Nasiri addressed several questions from attendees, providing tailored legal advice on specific issues. She also reassured immigrants that while the legal process may be time-consuming, understanding their rights and having the proper support can help mitigate potential challenges.

This seminar comes at a crucial time, as many Afghan refugees and former allies of the U.S. remain in limbo, awaiting resolution of their immigration cases. The event underscored the ongoing need for resources and support for Afghan immigrants adjusting to life in the U.S.

The Afghan-American Social Organization plans to continue hosting similar events to ensure that Afghan immigrants have the information they need to navigate the U.S. immigration system successfully.