Immigration News Today 5 February 2024

Here are some recent U.S. immigration news, an essential source to keep you up to date with changes and opportunities that may affect your life.

By reading these summaries, you will gain quick insights into critical issues, allowing you to make more informed decisions and stay on top of what is happening in the immigrant community.

Table of Contents

IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES

Statement by Secretary Mayorkas on the Bipartisan Homeland Security Agreement in the U.S. Senate.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security - February 4, 2024

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas issued a statement on the bipartisan homeland security agreement in the U.S. Senate. This agreement, described as "tough, fair and meaningful," seeks to address the challenges facing the country after decades of congressional inaction. It will allow DHS to more quickly remove those who fail to establish a legal basis to remain in the U.S., reducing the time from years to months. In addition, it will expedite protection and work authorization for those with legitimate claims, provide flexibility to respond to changing dynamics at the border, and invest in technology to prevent fentanyl from entering the country. Mayorkas thanks the bipartisan senators for their work on this legislation, which while it does not solve all of the problems in the immigration system, is essential to a more secure, orderly, fair and humane border.

FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Calls on Congress to Immediately Pass the Bipartisan National Security Agreement

The White House - February 4, 2024

The Biden-Harris Administration strongly supports the bipartisan agreement announced in the Senate, which addresses several pressing national security issues. This agreement, if signed into law, would be the toughest and fairest set of reforms to secure the border in decades. It includes new temporary authority, the "Emergency Border Authority," which allows the President and the Secretary of Homeland Security to temporarily bar individuals from seeking asylum, with limited exceptions, when the southwest border is overwhelmed. It also expedites access to work authorization for hundreds of thousands of migrants and establishes an efficient and fair process for the consideration of asylum claims and other protections. It modifies the asylum screening process and provides critical funding to combat smuggling and drug trafficking, border security, and asylum processing. In addition, it strengthens federal law against fentanyl trafficking and increases legal avenues to come to the United States. It promotes family unity and stability for non-citizens and ensures humane and fair treatment of asylum seekers, especially the most vulnerable. The agreement also advances national security interests by continuing to support Ukraine and Israel in their defense against tyranny and terrorism, and provides needed humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by conflicts around the world. The Biden-Harris Administration urges Congress not to delay and to immediately approve the bipartisan national security agreement.

Immigration proposal unveiled in Senate: 'closing' the border in certain cases and tougher asylum rules

Univision - February 4, 2024

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators unveiled a $118 billion bill that proposes to tighten border security policy and give more aid to Ukraine and Israel. The proposal includes two key changes to immigration policy: limiting the use of parole by migrants arriving at the border and allowing the president to "close" the border in certain cases when the flow of migrants is high. Kyrsten Sinema, an independent senator from Arizona, unveiled details of the immigration changes, including an end to the practice known as 'catch and release', which allows federal authorities to parole migrants seeking asylum at the border. The bill also calls for the hiring of thousands of new officers to evaluate asylum claims, as well as hundreds of Border Patrol agents, and funding for shelters and services in U.S. cities struggling with the influx of migrants. The future of the bill is uncertain due to Republican skepticism and opposition in the lower House.

These are the details of the bipartisan agreement that includes a stricter immigration plan

Telemundo News - February 4, 2024

The bipartisan agreement in the United States proposes a stricter immigration plan, including the approval of 250,000 additional visas for family reunification and the expediting of work permits. However, it also provides for limitations on appeals of political asylum cases and applications, representing a significant change in U.S. immigration policy.

ICE conducts removal flights of single adults, family units on Feb. 2

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 2, 2024

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted removal flights on February 2, targeting single adults and family units to several countries, including Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, Mauritania, Mexico, Peru, and Senegal. These actions are part of ICE's operations in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The policy focuses on the expeditious removal of individuals with no lawful basis to remain in the U.S., following U.S. law. From May 2023 through January 2024, more than 520,000 individuals have been removed or returned, most of them crossing the southwest border. This number exceeds annual removals and returns since 2013. ICE's air operations include the use of commercial airlines and chartered flights to facilitate the transfer and removal of noncitizens.

U.S. Border Patrol agents stop migrants using storm drains in El Paso

U.S. Customs and Border Protection - February 2, 2024

Border Patrol agents from Sector El Paso, Texas, arrested 69 migrants inside El Paso's public storm drain system on Wednesday. On January 31, at approximately 8:00 p.m., agents were notified of a possible illegal entry into the U.S. near the Boone Storm Drain, east of the Bridge of the Americas international port of entry. The El Paso station's Confined Space Entry Team (CSET) responded and initiated a search, locating an entry through a culvert near Interstate 10, where high levels of chlorine were detected. Agents intercepted and detained a group of 27 migrants, followed by the detention of 43 other migrants near Paisano Avenue. The 69 migrants, including four unaccompanied minors from Mexico and Guatemala, were from Guatemala, Mexico, Bolivia, Honduras and El Salvador. All were medically evaluated and processed for removal under Title 8. Sector El Paso is working with the U.S. Attorney's Office to impose consequences, through criminal prosecution and formal removal, on individuals and smugglers who exploit the storm drain system and endanger the lives of agents and other law enforcement officers. Transnational Criminal Organizations exploit El Paso's storm drains for illegal migrant smuggling, which poses numerous risks, including the possibility of injury or death.

ERO Los Angeles arrests 26 non-citizens with pending charges or convictions for murder, manslaughter and child assault during nationwide operation

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 1, 2024

Los Angeles Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 26 noncitizens unlawfully present in the country with pending charges or convictions for murder, manslaughter, and child assault. This nationwide operation was conducted from January 16-28, 2024. Those arrested include a 47-year-old Mexican national in Los Angeles wanted in Mexico for human trafficking, a 36-year-old Mexican national in Harbor City wanted for murder, and a 39-year-old Salvadoran national in Compton convicted of forcible oral copulation of a victim under the age of 14. ICE focuses on arresting noncitizens who have committed crimes and other individuals who have violated the nation's immigration laws. In FY 2023, ERO arrested 73,822 noncitizens with criminal histories, including 33,209 assaults, 4,390 sexual assaults, 7,520 weapons offenses, 1,713 homicides, and 1,655 kidnappings.

Greg Abbott warned that Texas will expand border security operation with Mexico: "We will not limit ourselves".

El Diario NY - February 4, 2024

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the expansion of security operations on the border with Mexico in response to the increase of undocumented immigrants. Accompanied by other Republican governors, Abbott stated that the Texas National Guard is conducting operations to strengthen border security. During a conference in Eagle Pass, controlled by Texas soldiers, Abbott affirmed that it is his constitutional duty to protect the state against what he calls "invasion". He criticized the Biden administration for not enforcing U.S. immigration laws properly. In addition, it was mentioned that hundreds of people protested at the border in a movement coordinated by a conservative group, criticizing the Biden administration's immigration policies.

Greg Abbott meets with other state governors to discuss immigration crisis

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, along with other Republican leaders, has expressed dissatisfaction with the open borders policy maintained by the Biden administration. In a recent meeting, Abbott and other state governors criticized the White House's lack of effective measures to protect border states from the flow of undocumented immigrants. This meeting, covered by Telemundo News, highlights the political tensions and challenges in managing the immigration crisis on the southern border of the United States.

Caravan against irregular immigration arrives in Yuma, calls for border to be secured

Univision News - February 3, 2024

A caravan of Republican Party supporters has arrived in Yuma, Arizona, to express their concern about irregular immigration and call for stricter measures at the southern border of the United States. Univision Noticias video shows David Lara, a Yuma resident, explaining that the goal of the caravan is to raise awareness about the situation at the border. The caravan participants, who are now heading towards San Ysidro, California, express the need for greater border security and stronger policies to address irregular immigration.

Anti-immigrant caravan advances through the U.S.: fear of violence

Univision News - February 3, 2024

An anti-immigrant caravan is moving through the United States, protesting against undocumented crossings and the federal government's current border policies. Although the caravan's organizers insist on their intention to carry out a peaceful mobilization, there are concerns about the possibility of violent acts, especially since many of the participants are armed. Univision Noticias covers this mobilization, highlighting the tensions and concerns it generates in the context of immigration policy and border security.

Arrival of anti-immigrant convoy in Texas generates discussion and controversy

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

The 'Army of God' caravan, an anti-immigrant convoy with the slogan "Let's take back our border," has arrived in Quemado, Texas, provoking arguments and controversy. Departing from Virginia, this group verbally clashed with immigrant rights advocates and opponents of their positions in northern Eagle Pass. Telemundo News reports on this event, highlighting the tensions and debate surrounding immigration policies and border security in the United States.

Hundreds protest undocumented immigrants at Texas and California borders

La Opinión - February 3, 2024

A convoy initiated by right-wing extremists headed to various points along the California and Texas border with Mexico to protest against the federal government for failing to contain undocumented immigrants and to demand greater border control. The group "Reclaim Our Border" rallied more than 1,600 supporters for demonstrations in California and Texas. In California, about 500 people gathered near the San Ysidro border port, waving U.S. flags and messages of support for Donald Trump. In Texas, about 1,500 people gathered in Quemado, near Eagle Pass, to send a message about the dangers of the southern border. Protesters carried attire, flags and messages against Biden and in support of Trump and Governor Greg Abbott. No incidents were reported at any of the demonstrations. The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) issued a national alert for border area residents for the presence of armed extremists with a hate agenda.

Summary of President Joe Biden's call with President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico

U.S. Department of State - February 3, 2024

President Joe Biden of the United States held a conversation with President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico on February 3, 2024. During the call, both leaders discussed the challenges on the shared U.S.-Mexico border and pledged to continue their productive partnership. President Biden thanked Mexico for its operational support and steps taken to deter irregular migration while expanding legal avenues. They reiterated their joint commitment to strengthen efforts to counter transnational criminal organizations involved in the illicit trafficking of drugs, arms and people. They agreed to maintain close cooperation between the two governments to improve the lives of citizens of both countries and promote opportunities throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Biden and Lopez Obrador discuss migration after publication of accusations against the Mexican

Los Angeles Times en Español - February 3, 2024

The presidents of the United States, Joe Biden, and Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, held a telephone conversation focused on migration issues. This call took place in a context of tensions due to press reports about a DEA investigation, closed in 2010, involving alleged drug trafficking donations to Lopez Obrador's 2006 campaign. López Obrador had apologized to the U.S. for these allegations, which he called unfounded. Both governments described the call as productive and focused on bilateral cooperation on immigration issues. The White House thanked Mexico for its operational support and measures to deter irregular migration, while Mexico emphasized the need to address the root causes of migration and called for the regularization of Mexicans who have been in the U.S. for more than five years. Biden's immigration policy, especially in an election year, and Mexico's cooperation are crucial to the implementation of any migration-related measures.

Eagle Pass captures attention in Texas-White House immigration standoff

Los Angeles Times en Español - February 3, 2024

Eagle Pass, a Texas border town, has become the focus of a standoff between Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the Biden administration over border enforcement and illegal crossings. Despite being a community that celebrates its cultural connection to Mexico, Eagle Pass has been rocked by the unprecedented surge of migrants. The city, which is part of the Border Patrol sector in Del Rio, has seen a record number of arrests for illegal entries. Since January, Texas has taken control of Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, preventing Border Patrol entry and deploying razor wire along the Rio Grande. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has called these actions by Texas "inadmissible." The Supreme Court temporarily allowed the Border Patrol to cut the Texas-placed wire, although the state continues to install more. This conflict highlights the tension between state and federal efforts to manage the situation at the border, in a context where immigration has become a central issue in U.S. politics.

Biden has few options as immigration takes center stage in 2024 election

Los Angeles Times en Español - February 2, 2024

Joe Biden, early in his presidency, began reversing Donald Trump's immigration policies, but now, with immigration a central issue in the 2024 election, he is under pressure to adopt more restrictive measures. Biden, facing pressure from both Republicans and Democrats, has agreed to a bipartisan measure in the Senate that would expand his authority to impose strict limits on border crossings. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has called for National Guard intervention, and cities such as New York, Chicago and Denver are struggling to accommodate asylum seekers. Nine Democratic governors have asked Washington for action to resolve the humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Trump is seeking to reignite the border passions of his 2016 campaign. The situation on the border makes Biden vulnerable, especially among Latinos and college-educated white Republican women. Immigration has become a top voter concern for 2024, with arrests for illegal crossings reaching historic highs.

Attorneys general from 23 states ask to overturn ruling declaring DACA program illegal

Univision - February 2, 2024

Attorneys general from 23 states governed by Democrats have asked the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn a ruling that declared the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program illegal. In an amicus brief, they argue that dreamers, young people who came to the U.S. undocumented before the age of 16, have considered the U.S. their home for most of their lives and are part of the fabric of the nation. DACA currently protects some 600,000 beneficiaries, allowing them to live, study and work in the U.S. without fear of being separated from their families. The coalition of attorneys general highlights dreamers' contributions to the economy, paying taxes, serving in the military and working in critical sectors. The appeal is in response to a ruling by Judge Andrew S. Hanen, who in September 2023 declared illegal DACA, a program created in 2012 by President Barack Obama.

Group of 23 prosecutors defends DACA after judge's decision that seeks to remove protection for dreamers

La Opinión - February 2, 2024

A coalition of 23 prosecutors, led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, has joined together to defend the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program after a federal judge in Texas ruled it illegal. The group, which includes prosecutors from several states, filed an amicus brief in support of DACA, arguing that the program has allowed more than 600,000 'dreamers' to live, study and work in the United States without fear of being separated from their families. Prosecutors highlight the benefits of DACA, including its positive impact on education and public safety. They assert that DACA is viable with Executive Branch action and point to various benefits for states and society at large. The defense of DACA comes against a backdrop of ongoing legal challenges by Republican administrations since its creation in 2012 by President Barack Obama.

New theft modality in NYC: migrants use credit cards to buy cars in other countries

La Opinión - February 4, 2024

In New York, a new theft modality has been identified involving migrants of various nationalities, possibly linked to gangs or criminal groups. According to law enforcement sources cited by the New York Post, migrants steal victims' phones and then use Apple Pay and credit cards to make large purchases, including car purchases, in their home countries, especially Ecuador and Venezuela. These activities are believed to be organized and linked to gangs, including Venezuela's Tren de Aragua criminal mega-gang. Authorities are also investigating the possible link of some migrants to the recent attack on two police officers in New York. Six of the seven arrested for the beating were released, and at least four used false identities to obtain bus tickets to California. Police are investigating whether these migrants stole special IDs known as "G numbers" to obtain the tickets.

Migrants who beat New York police officers used false names to flee to California

La Opinión - February 4, 2024

Several migrants involved in the attack on two police officers in New York used false names to flee to California. After being released without bail, four of the men went to a Catholic church, where under false identities and a fabricated story, they obtained bus tickets to California. Their current whereabouts are unknown. These migrants were part of a group of seven men involved in the attack, and authorities are looking for six more. The incident occurred as police attempted to break up a disorderly group in Times Square. The officers suffered scratches and bruises in the attack. The first five men arrested are originally from Venezuela and were living in immigrant shelters in the city. None had work permits or known family members in the city. Police are investigating whether the migrants used special IDs known as "G-numbers" to obtain bus tickets. The release of the migrants and their subsequent escape have generated outrage and condemnation from authorities and the public.

More than 38 thousand immigrants remain deprived of their liberty in ICE detention centers.

La Opinión - February 3, 2024

During Joe Biden's administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Centers have seen the largest number of immigrants deprived of their liberty. According to a Syracuse University report, more than 38,000 undocumented immigrants are currently in ICE detention centers. As of January 28, the number of aliens incarcerated for being undocumented rose to 38,498, an increase of 5% since December. ICE detention centers in Texas have the highest average inmate population. A troubling statistic is that 25,972 of the detained immigrants have no criminal record. In addition, through ICE's Alternative Detention (ATD) programs, 189,780 families or individuals are being monitored pending resolution of their legal status in the U.S. The Biden administration has surpassed the number of immigrants deported during every fiscal year of Donald Trump's presidency.

Oak Park receives grant to operate temporary shelter for asylum seekers

La Raza - February 3, 2024

Oak Park, a locality in Chicago, has received a grant of nearly $2 million to assist asylum seekers, primarily Venezuelans. This funding will allow Oak Park to operate a temporary shelter program. Part of the funds will go to a local non-profit organization to operate a new temporary shelter in a former Catholic school until the end of June. In addition, funds will be used for legal services to assist immigrants with their asylum applications. This financial support is a significant step toward providing assistance and resources to asylum seekers in the region.

New York launches prepaid credit cards for immigrant families to buy food and supplies

El Diario NY - February 4, 2024

New York has launched a pilot program offering reloadable prepaid credit cards to migrant families for the purchase of food and supplies. This program, partnered with Mobility Capital Finance, will replace the distribution of non-perishable food boxes to immigrant families staying in hotels. Initially, the program will begin with 500 immigrant families with children already staying in short-term hotels. If successful, it will be considered for expansion to all immigrant families in hotels. The cards can only be used at bodegas, grocery stores, supermarkets and convenience stores, and the amount will depend on the number of people in the family and their income. Despite criticism, Mayor Eric Adams' office claims the program would save the city more than $$600,000 per month, or more than $$7.2 million annually.

New York announces program to give prepaid cards to migrant families applying for asylum

Univision News - February 3, 2024

New York City has launched a pilot program in partnership with a financial institution to support migrant families. This program will provide 500 migrant families seeking asylum with prepaid debit cards. These cards can be used to purchase food and baby essentials. The Univision Noticias video details this initiative, highlighting its goal of offering direct and practical assistance to migrant families in their process of settling and adapting to the city.

Increased threats and violence against migrants reported in Ciudad Juarez and El Paso

El Diario NY - February 3, 2024

Activists in the Juarez-El Paso border region have reported an increase in threats and violence, both verbal and physical, against migrants attempting to cross into the United States. This increase in violence, especially from the Texas National Guard, is linked to anti-immigrant political rhetoric in the context of the U.S. elections. President Joe Biden has considered closing the southern border to curb the massive influx of undocumented immigrants, a measure demanded by Republican leaders. The situation has generated concern among activists, who criticize the inhumane treatment of migrants in both Mexico and the United States. The violence exercised by the Texas National Guard and the damage caused by the barbed wire fence are seen as promoting political discourse, which has led to a call to respect international human rights and recognize the right to migrate.

Immigrant tells how he was scammed with alleged checks on social networks

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

Samuel Alzate, a recent immigrant to the United States, recounts how he was the victim of a Facebook scam. The scam involved supposed fake checks and fake businesses designed to steal money from users of the social network. Telemundo News shares Alzate's experience, warning about the dangers of social media scams and the importance of being alert to deceptive offers, especially for new immigrants who may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.

Migrants concerned about spread of disease in shelters

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

Migrants housed in the Randall's Island tent are expressing concern about the spread of disease within the shelter. According to reports, the sick are not being properly separated from the rest of the group, increasing the risk of contagion. City authorities are aware of the situation and say they are taking steps to address the problem. Telemundo News highlights this issue, underlining the importance of health and safety in migrant shelters.

Activists in New York call for a budget line to assist migrants

Voice of America - February 3, 2024

Activists in New York are calling for the city's 2025 budget to include specific provisions to address the needs of migrants. The petition focuses on securing permanent housing for migrants through Cityphelps vouchers. Voice of America reports on this initiative, highlighting the importance of integrating migrants into the community and providing them with essential resources for their settlement and well-being in the city.

AMLO asks immigrants in the U.S. not to vote for candidates who do not love Mexico

La Opinión - February 2, 2024

Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), President of Mexico, urged Mexican immigrants in the United States with the right to vote not to support candidates who speak out against Mexico. During a press conference, AMLO criticized the comments of some Republican governors, such as Kristi Noem, Ron DeSantis and Greg Abbott, who have stated that Mexicans represent a threat to U.S. society. AMLO stressed that migrants are not a threat and that the United States became a great nation because of them. He also recommended that immigrants vote for candidates who promise to legalize their status and have that commitment signed in a document. AMLO concluded by saying that no candidate, regardless of party, should be voted for if he or she is against the people of Mexico.

OTHER NEWS

Mexicans, mainly affected: Canada announced it will limit the arrival of asylum seekers

El Diario NY - February 2, 2024

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced measures to reduce the influx of tourists who then seek asylum in Canada, mainly affecting Mexican citizens. The Canadian government will allocate millions of dollars to Toronto for refugee housing and is preparing responses to control borders and the immigration system. These measures come after criticism of the 2016 decision to lift visas for Mexicans, which has led to an increase in asylum claims. Quebec's head of government, Francois Legault, described the situation as "intolerable" and called for stricter policies. Mexico has acknowledged the increase in Mexican asylum seekers in Canada and pledged to collaborate to promote orderly and safe migration.

Honduran migrant children attend school in Mexico while waiting to enter the U.S.

Univision News - February 4, 2024

Carolina Flores, a Honduran girl, continues her education in Mexico while she and her family wait for the opportunity to enter the United States. This case illustrates the situation of many migrant children who, despite the uncertainties of the migration process, seek to maintain their education in a transit country.

IRS warns of scams at the hands of the same tax preparers

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued a warning about tax preparation scams. With the recent opening of the filing season, the IRS advises taxpayers to be extremely cautious when choosing their document preparers. Telemundo News shares helpful tips to avoid becoming a victim of scams and stresses the importance of verifying the credibility and experience of tax preparation professionals to protect taxpayers' personal and financial information.

We explain in augmented reality why the U.S. population is getting older and older

Univision News - February 3, 2024

Census figures in the United States reveal a progressive aging of the population, approaching an average age of 40. This Univision Noticias video uses augmented reality to explain the reasons behind this demographic shift and points out the areas of the country where this phenomenon is most noticeable. Factors such as birth trends, life expectancy and migration patterns are discussed, highlighting how these elements contribute to the increase in the average age of the U.S. population.

Street vendors to return to crosswalks

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

Local leaders in New York City are looking for alternatives for street vendors after the implementation of a law that prohibits them from being located on bridges. Telemundo News reports on efforts to find new spaces where these workers can continue their commercial activities. The law, designed to regulate commerce in specific areas, has generated the need to identify alternative locations for vendors.

A shelter for those who can't pay their rents in Los Angeles

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

In Los Angeles, authorities have increased funds for emergency assistance to families facing difficulties in paying their rents. This measure comes after the February 1 deadline for delinquent tenants to regularize their rent arrears. Telemundo News reports on this effort by the city to prevent further evictions, highlighting the critical situation of many residents who are still struggling to meet their rental obligations amid economic challenges.

Los Angeles approves new eviction protection for some tenants: here's what you need to know

Univision News - February 3, 2024

The Los Angeles City Council has approved a new protective measure to prevent the eviction of tenants affected by the economic crisis. This measure applies to those who have applied for financial assistance under the emergency program and have not yet received the funds. The decision comes after the expiration of the deadline established by the city for tenants to regularize their rent arrears. Univision Noticias reports on this initiative, highlighting its importance in the context of the financial difficulties faced by many Los Angeles residents.

Latino released from prison after 25 years of unjust murder conviction

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

Jose Tinajero, a Latino, has been released from prison after serving 25 years for a murder conviction that turned out to be wrongful. He and another person accused of the same crime were coerced into making false confessions by a Chicago police detective. A city judge has overturned their convictions, ending a long period of injustice. Telemundo News tells this moving story, highlighting the failures of the judicial system and the devastating impact of wrongful convictions on people's lives.

Victim of fake cosmetic surgeon who turned out to be a plumber speaks out

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

Tito Villarreal, who posed as a cosmetic surgeon but was actually a plumber, has been arrested and faces sexual assault charges. He promoted his services on social networks, deceiving his victims. One of them tells how she contacted Villarreal and shared compromising images with him, falling into his trap. Noticias Telemundo presents this case, highlighting the dangers of trusting unverified professionals and the importance of investigating thoroughly before undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure.

Meet the newscaster in drag making LGBTQ+ history in Mexican television

Chicago Tribune - February 1, 2024

Guillermo Barraza, through his drag character Amanda, has become the first news anchor in drag on Mexican television, marking a historic milestone for the LGBTQ+ community in a country where both this community and journalists are often targets of violence. The program "La Verdrag," launched in October, seeks to radically transform the perception of LGBTQ+ communities in Mexican society. Barraza, growing up in conservative Culiacán, Sinaloa, never identified with gay characters on television and now, through Amanda, seeks to change that narrative. The program addresses issues important to the queer community in Mexico, including interviews with prominent figures. However, violence against the LGBTQ+ community and journalists in Mexico remains an ongoing concern, especially in the context of the violent death of one of the show's guests, a prominent queer figure in the country.

Meet Chapultepec's "changuito mión", the souvenir that captivates tourists in Mexico City

CNN English - February 3, 2024

The "changuito mión", a popular joke toy in the forest of Chapultepec, Mexico City, has captured the attention of tourists and has become popular on social networks such as TikTok. This souvenir, which has fascinated thousands of visitors, reflects the local culture and humor, becoming a representative icon of the tourist experience in the Mexican capital.

Planet Earth: 'Guardians of water' fight drought in Bolivia

Telemundo News - February 3, 2024

In Bolivia, a group of Aymara women, known as 'Las guardianas del agua', are dedicating their time and efforts to combat drought through rain harvesting. These women not only apply these techniques in their communities, but also train others in these sustainable practices. Telemundo News highlights the importance of their work in the context of climate change and the need to adapt to more sustainable ways of living, especially in regions affected by water scarcity.

Historic elections in El Salvador. Bukele thinks democracy is consolidated, others see the beginning of a dictatorship.

Los Angeles Times in English - February 5, 2024

In El Salvador, Nayib Bukele celebrated his triumph in the presidential elections, despite violating the constitutional prohibition to run consecutively. Bukele declared himself the winner before the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) issued the official data. With 13.8% of the tally sheets processed, Bukele was leading with 82.88% of the votes. The president affirmed that his victory represents the consolidation of a full democracy in El Salvador, while critics and experts see this as a mancillation of the Constitution and the beginning of a concentration of power in the hands of the State. Bukele proclaimed that his party, Nuevas Ideas, would obtain a minimum of 58 out of 60 deputies, which would be a record in democratic history. However, there are concerns about the legitimacy and credibility of the electoral process, with accusations of manipulation and constitutional violations. The opposition and some experts fear that El Salvador is moving towards a dictatorship under Bukele.

Salvadorans in Los Angeles adopt electronic voting for elections in their country

Voice of America - February 3, 2024

In California, where approximately 730,000 Salvadorans reside, the diaspora in Los Angeles has adopted electronic voting to participate in El Salvador's elections. This initiative allows more than half a million Salvadorans in the Los Angeles area to exercise their right to vote from abroad, thus contributing to democracy in their country of origin and maintaining their link to El Salvador.

El Salvador: a country scarred by civil war, gangs and extreme poverty

Voice of America - February 3, 2024

El Salvador, a country historically affected by civil war, gang violence and extreme poverty, faces significant challenges in terms of reconciliation and overcoming poverty. Despite the absence of war and gangs in the streets, these problems remain outstanding issues that require attention and effective solutions to improve the quality of life of Salvadorans.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

I have used an artificial intelligence tool, programmed with specific instructions, to summarize each article or video. These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics.

Although these summaries are intended to be accurate, it is essential to read the articles or watch the full videos for a complete understanding. I share this information to help you stay informed, but the final interpretation of each article or video is up to you.

As the distributor of this information, I assume no responsibility for the details or interpretations of the summaries. My goal is to provide you with quick and efficient access to the most important immigration news, helping you stay informed and connected to your community.

IMMIGRATION CONSULTATION

News and information found on the Internet is of a general nature and should not be construed as specific legal advice for any individual, case or situation.

Anyone who has questions about U.S. immigration law, including whether or not a particular immigration law applies to his or her situation, should immediately seek advice from a licensed and experienced U.S. immigration attorney to determine his or her immigration legal options.

Avoid being victim of immigration fraud and never consult with notaries, immigration consultants, paper-fillers, multi-services and others. unlicensed persons to obtain immigration legal advice.

Nelson A. Castillo is an immigration attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience and author of La Tarjeta Verde: Cómo Obtener la Residencia Permanente en los Estados Unidos (Green Card: How to Obtain Permanent Residence in the United States). He is a former President of the Hispanic National Bar Association and the Westlake South Neighborhood Council of Los Angeles.

For information on how to schedule an immigration consultation with Dr. Castillo, click here. click here.

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