In a significant move, the Biden administration has begun to reverse several immigration policies put in place by the Trump administration. Among these changes is the vow to create a pathway to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants living in the United States.
One of the most notable changes made by the Biden administration is the decision to end the controversial “Remain in Mexico” policy, which required asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases were processed in the United States. This policy, implemented by the Trump administration, resulted in many vulnerable individuals being subjected to dangerous and inhumane conditions while awaiting their fate.
Additionally, the Biden administration has pledged to protect the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which provides protection from deportation and work permits to hundreds of thousands of young immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. Former President Trump had attempted to dismantle the program during his time in office.
Furthermore, the Biden administration has announced plans to increase the number of refugees allowed to enter the United States each year, a stark contrast to the drastically reduced refugee admissions set by the Trump administration. This move demonstrates the administration’s commitment to upholding America’s long-standing tradition of welcoming refugees fleeing persecution and violence.
Perhaps most importantly, President Biden has outlined his vision for comprehensive immigration reform that includes creating a pathway to citizenship for the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants currently living in the United States. The proposed legislation, known as the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021, aims to provide a roadmap to citizenship for undocumented individuals, as well as improving the legal immigration system and addressing the root causes of migration from Central America.
This ambitious plan has garnered support from immigrant rights advocates, who see it as a long-overdue step towards a more fair and just immigration system. However, the legislation will face obstacles in Congress, where bipartisan cooperation on immigration issues has historically been elusive.
Despite these challenges, the Biden administration’s commitment to reversing harmful immigration policies and creating a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants represents a significant shift in the country’s approach to immigration. By prioritizing compassion, fairness, and respect for human rights, the administration is signaling a new era of inclusive and humane immigration policies that align with the values of a nation built by immigrants.