Dear Community Partners:
In the last several weeks, many of you have asked questions and expressed concerns regarding USCIS and ICE policies during this period of time. We’d like to highlight that both components have issued important public guidance on COVID 19. https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/uscis-response-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19
For the USCIS Response, please see the USCIS COVID-19 webpage for information on USCIS office closings, appointments and rescheduling, naturalization and oath ceremonies, and special situations. USCIS will continue to update this page.
For ICE Guidance, please see https://www.ice.gov/covid19. ICE has confirmed that it will not conduct immigration enforcement at medical facilities, except under extraordinary circumstances. ICE’s website also contains information on removals, detentions, visitations, and nonimmigrant students.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us at communityengagement@HQ.DHS.GOV.
Thank you for your continued partnership and be safe. Please remember that education and precautions are the strongest tools against infection. Stay informed by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
March 22, 2022- Update:
Dear Community Partners:
The Department of Homeland Security, Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, has heard from many of you who have expressed concerns regarding the bigoted rhetoric surrounding COVID-19. As the public health situation continues to develop, the ensuing fear and anxiety has led to the spread of false information and racist behavior.
Community stakeholders have reported to us acts of xenophobia and how certain businesses are suffering due to harmful and hateful misinformation. We take these reports seriously and are continuing to track incidents as they happen. If you or someone that you know has experienced any type of harassment or discrimination due to COVID-19, please contact CommunityEngagement@hq.dhs.gov.
We would like to emphasize that if members of your community have been or may be the targets of possible hate crimes or other forms of violence, it is imperative that you contact your local law enforcement officials immediately.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership. Please stay safe and healthy.
Sincerely,
Community Engagement
Office for Civil Rights & Civil Liberties
US Department of Homeland Security
Washington DC 20528