A very big win for Henry Valendia and his husband, Josh Vandiver:
In a decision that could have far-reaching effects on immigration cases involving same-sex couples, federal officials have canceled the deportation of a Venezuelan man in New Jersey who is married to an American man, the couple’s lawyer said Wednesday.That's quite a statement coming for Lavi, who has been an amazing advocate (and lawyer) for binational same-sex couples. At Lavi's website, Stop The Deportations, this is described as an "HISTORIC VICTORY."
The announcement comes as immigration officials put into effect new, more flexible guidelines governing the deferral and cancellation of deportations, particularly for immigrants with no serious criminal records.
Immigration lawyers and gay rights advocates said the decision represented a significant shift in policy and could open the door to the cancellation of deportations for other immigrants in same-sex marriages.
“This action shows that the government has not only the power but the inclination to do the right thing when it comes to protecting certain vulnerable populations from deportation,” said the couple’s lawyer, Lavi Soloway.
Congrats to Henry, Josh and their legal team. Let's hope other binational couples get the same news.
NOTE FROM JOHN: The Obama administration deserves an atta-boy for this one. This is the definition of fierce advocacy - it's keeping your eyes open for opportunities to use the mechanism of government to do good, rather than coming up with excuses as to why you can't. This is a good thing, and they deserve our praise.
