Deportation of Parents and the Impact on Minor Children Born in the USA
When an illegal immigrant is deported from the USA along with their minor child born in the country, the situation can be highly complex and emotionally charged. This article explores the legal and practical implications of such scenarios, focusing on the rights and potential outcomes for both the deported parent and their child.
Legal Rights and Child Custody
Under U.S. law, if the parent has custody of the child, they can legally take the child with them when they are deported. However, the child's nationality and legal status in the parent's home country can vary significantly. In some cases, the child may not be a citizen of the parent's home country, and obtaining residency status for the child may involve a lengthy and sometimes costly process.
Examples and Real-Life Scenarios
The case of a husband's granddaughter's boyfriend provides a touching but stark example. Born in the USA to undocumented parents, the young man was deported along with his parent and his U.S. citizen sibling. This unprecedented journey lasted over 12 years and required thousands of dollars. Interestingly, both the U.S. born son and his foreign-born brother eventually served in the United States Army, showcasing their commitment to their country despite the hardships they faced.
Childcare Arrangements and Support Systems
In the absence of the deported parents, the wellbeing of the minor children born in the USA is crucial. Often, the children must rely on a guardian or other family members to provide support and care in the United States. The parents can either take their children with them or leave them with a guardian in the U.S. This decision is influenced by various factors, including the child's age and the availability of support systems in the community.
Impact on the Children
The potential psychological and emotional impact on the children cannot be understated. An eight-year-old child might be forced to consider safeguards like calling a friend or relative if the parents don't return on time. This underscores the profound lack of understanding about why people from disadvantaged backgrounds seek to come to the USA. Additionally, the significant financial and time investments required to navigate the legal immigration process often go unnoticed.
Policy and Improvements Needed
There is no clear national policy or set procedures for handling such situations, which means each case can be handled differently. However, the case at hand highlights the need for a more compassionate and efficient immigration system. The current system's complexity and cost can deter many individuals from coming to the USA legally and force them to take extreme measures to secure a better future for their families.
Ultimately, the treatment of minor children of deported parents is a critical issue influenced by policy, legal frameworks, and societal understanding. Improvements in the immigration system, coupled with better support for affected families, would go a long way in ensuring the well-being and future prospects of these children.