CASA is a group of passionate, community-conscious people working to organize, advocate for, and expand opportunities for Latino and immigrant people in the states of Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland. With over 100,000 members across all three states, CASA is the largest member-based Latino and immigrant organization in the mid-Atlantic region. CASA also provides services that range from employment placement; workforce development and training; health education; citizenship and legal services; and financial, language, and literacy training to Latino and immigrant communities.

The success of CASA relies fully in its members. For this reason, we would like to introduce a youth member that was a key part in all the campaigns mentioned below: Mitzi Colin. Mitzi is originally from Mexico although she has lived almost her whole live in Coatesville. She is a DACA recipient and a fierce advocate for immigrant rights. Since joining CASA, Mitzi has rallied in DC for DACA and shared her story publicly to advocate for a tuition equity bill. Mitzi is currently enrolled in West Chester University and is a CASA advocate for census in Chester County.

If you want to learn more about CASA in Pennsylvania and our work, follow us on Facebook at CASA Pennsylvania, on Twitter at @CASAforall, and on Instagram at @casa4all

PUBLIC CHARGE

Last week, the Supreme Court decided to allow the administration to implement its new public charge rule. The Department of Homeland Security announced it would begin implementation of the rule on February 24, 2020. Under this rule, the use of a wide range of public benefits, including Medicaid and SNAP, will be counted against individuals applying for a green card. The rule does not apply to every immigrant - most people who are eligible for public benefits can continue to receive those benefits without any risk to their immigration status.

Stay Informed:
-- PICC and CLS will be hosting a webinar to explain this rule on Weds. Feb. 12, 10am-11am. Register today!
-- This rule only affects people APPLYING for a green card.
-- Talk to an attorney who understands public benefits law and immigration law before you disenroll from any benefits programs!
-- Download community education materials

MUSLIM BAN

Last Friday, the administration announced it is expanding the Muslim ban and will be ending visas for nationals of Eritrea, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, and Nigeria. This expanded travel ban is another example of this administration's anti-immigrant xenophobic agenda. From detaining families at the border, to limiting access to citizenship, to barring travel based on national origin, it is clear that separating families is this administration's strategy for harming Black and brown communities. No family or community should be separated because of their religion or where they come from.

Take Action! Across the country, groups are coming together to end these bigoted policies. Follow the No Muslim Ban Ever campaign for resources and toolkits on how to fight back against these harmful policies.

Know Your Rights! As with previous travel bans, implementation is likely to be confusing for the next few weeks or months. Check out these resources at the Penn State Center for Immigrants' Rights Clinic for up-to-date information.

Please Donate to PICC!

PICC depends upon your support. Please donate to PICC today to support our advocacy and organizing work to mobilize the immigrant vote, build immigrant leaders, campaign for pro-immigrant policies at the local, state and federal levels, and support the effective implementation of pro-immigrant public policies.