Author Archives: Victoria Neilson

End the One-Year Filing Deadline

March 22, 2013 / by Victoria Neilson

Everyone deserves a chance to live a life free from mistreatment and fear. It is crucial that Comprehensive Immigration Reform include the provisions of the Refugee Protection Act to ensure that the United States remains a beacon of hope and freedom for asylum seekers, including those who are LGBT. Read more

Posted in Asylum | Leave a comment

Jurist: Truly Comprehensive Immigration Reform Must Address LGBT Issues

February 14, 2013 / by Victoria Neilson / Comments: 3

This is an exciting time. It feels as though we are on the threshold of lasting change and lasting equality. But until LGBT families are able to clearly cross over the threshold and know that their relationships will be honored by the immigration service, we must continue to fight on every front for full immigration equality. Read more

Posted in Couples and Families | 3 Comments

US Leadership to Advance Equality for LGBT People Abroad

December 14, 2012 / by Victoria Neilson / Comments: 8

At the close of Human Rights Week, we herald the efforts of the Administration in advancing the rights of LGBT people throughout the world and look forward to even more progress. Immigration Equality is proud to have played a key role in many of this year’s accomplishments. Read more

Posted in Asylum, Couples and Families, Detention, Transgender | 8 Comments

Prosecutorial Discretion Memo Extends “Family Relationships” to Include LGBT Partners

October 9, 2012 / by Victoria Neilson / Comments: 5

On October 5, 2012 , Department of Homeland Security issued written guidance that extends discretionary relief to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) immigrants with same-sex partners in the U.S. The new guidance instructs Immigration and Customs Enforcment (ICE) officers, agents, and attorneys to recognize these LGBT families for purposes of relief on a case by case basis as defined by a June 2011 memo from ICE Director John Morton. Read more

Posted in Couples and Families, Immigration Basics | 5 Comments

New York Clinic for LGBTQ Immigrant Youth

September 18, 2012 / by Victoria Neilson / Comments: 1

Immigration Equality is pleased to announce that we are partnering with Lambda Legal and the LGBT Community Center to host a panel discussion and legal clinic for LGBTQ immigrant youth. Read more

Posted in Couples and Families, Immigration Basics | 1 Comment