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The Obama administration announced on August 6 that it will overhaul the nation’s immigrant detention system.  One immediate change: the government will stop sending families to the T. Don Hutto Residential Center, the former medium-security prison near Austin, TX that is the subject of “The Least of These.” This outcome is a result of a unique collaboration of advocacy efforts, involving grassroots organizing, litigation, public education, and legislative efforts.  Congratulations to all who helped bring about change.  Many concerns about detention … More >

Last month the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 2010 appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security (H.R. 2892).  The accompanying report to the bill stated that the Appropriations Committee… ...believes that detention is not generally appropriate for families and is concerned that the Department does not routinely make Alternatives to Detention available to families it takes into custody. In addition, while the Committee is pleased that ICE developed and implemented detention standards for families held in its custody, it … More >

Many thanks to SnagFilms for connecting us to the Center for American Progress, which hosted a standing-room-only screening on May 11, with a panel discussion hosted by new VP for immigration Angie Kelley.  The level of energy and engagement in DC is extraordinary right now. Click HERE for a link to the 5 minute CAP video about the film. Click HERE to watch a video of the full panel discussion. Photos: Filmmakers Clark Lyda, Marcy Garriott, Jesse Lyda in Washington DC: … More >