Immigration and US Citizenship News

By Kieran C. O’ Sullivan

Immigration Counselor

Arrests

One of the calls this week came from an immigrant arrested on a road traffic violation. Fr McCarthy asked me to remind readers who are driving without a US license to keep in mind that they could be turned over to US Immigration if caught and convicted of driving offenses. There is a growing awareness of this among some of the undocumented. According to Fr. John, "People are in fear of being picked up for simple things like traffic violations and as a result have to look over their shoulders constantly." The IPC is here to address any concerns you have, and we have a number of attorneys we can refer you to if necessary for help at a court appearance.

Prison Visits

Fr. John and Sr. Marguerite Kelly, our Executive Director, continue their weekly visits to Irish detainees in local and county jails and US detention centers. If you know someone who is in prison who might like a visit from us and our volunteers, give us a call today.

Mother Toddler Group

Our mother toddler group continues to flourish and meets regularly at St. Marks in Dorchester on Wednesdays, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (during regular school season). If you know parents and children who might enjoy being part of our weekly get together, give us a call today. This is a wonderful support group especially for new mothers and the children delight in having lots of playmates.

Wanted: Employment Postings

Another caller this week mentioned she has been looking for work in elderly care. If you or someone you know is looking for a career, full or part-time, give us a call. We can post jobs at our Quincy office.

Diversity Visa Lottery

Readers should note this lottery application period closes December 1. This is your last chance to put in an application for the lottery. Winners will be notified next summer between April and July.

Section 245 I - What is it?

Section 245 I has been back in the news lately as immigration advocates seek ways to get some immigration relief. Section 245 I allows an undocumented immigrant file for adjustment of status in the US if he or she is otherwise eligible and is the beneficiary of a family or employment based visa petition. This provision expired April 30, 2001. If renewed, it might help some undocumented people in the US. Advocates in Washington are once again talking about 245 I as something to push as the feeling is it would pass through Congress more easily, since it is a previously-enacted provision. We will monitor events in DC through our DC office and administrator Geri Garvey.

Legal Clinic Update

Our next legal clinic will take place on Tuesday December 2nd. We'll be helping people apply for legal status and US citizenship. Jane Chiang helped us out at the November clinic and her partner Chris Lavery will be hosting the clinic in December at Bad Abbots Bar & Restaurant, 1546 Hancock Street, (rear) Quincy, MA.