New York, NY, September 1, 2025 — Over the weekend, in the middle of the night, the US government attempted to deport over 100 Guatemalan children, even where children had active cases in immigration court seeking protection to remain in the US. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) provides legal representation to several of these children, who faced a terrifying sequence of events this past weekend, risking retraumatization. This action is a flagrant violation of due process and a betrayal of America’s commitment to protect the most vulnerable.
The IRC calls on the Trump administration to immediately halt all actions that violate due process and legal protections for unaccompanied children. US law requires the government to follow special procedures for these children–legal protections that recognize children’s unique vulnerabilities and needs, and allows them a chance to seek protection and stability in the US. IRC has provided legal services to more than 5,000 unaccompanied children in recent years. We know the dangers that many of these kids face going back to their home countries. Forcing them to return without a chance to have their case heard places children’s safety and lives at risk.
Jennifer Anzardo Valdes, IRC’s Director of Children’s Legal Services said, “Every child deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to be heard. Attempting to deport children while their legal proceedings are still pending and in a brazen, middle-of-the-night procedure that ripped them from facilities and foster homes is not only unlawful, it is unconscionable. Our clients have fled violence, persecution, and unimaginable trauma. They deserve protection, not punishment. They must not be subjected to more trauma by attempting to steal them away in the middle of the night. The IRC remains committed to defending the rights of children and families seeking safety. We call on all Americans to stand with us in demanding accountability, transparency, and the respect of due process protections in our immigration system.”