ECNETNews, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Dec. 30, 2024: In an urgent appeal, over 187 organizations have called on President Biden to utilize his pardon power to address urgent immigration issues. Their request centers around two key actions: first, to pardon immigrants with deportable convictions to prevent their removal, and second, to extend protection to clemency recipients from immigration detention or deportation.
As President Biden approaches the conclusion of his term and has recently pardoned his son along with 1,500 other individuals, the timing is ripe for him to revisit this critical issue. Advocates urge Biden to consider a collective pardon for non-criminal undocumented immigrants, DREAMers, and those holding Temporary Protected Status (TPS). These individuals have significantly contributed to the country, yet they are now at risk of deportation as policy shifts under a previous administration loom dangerously close.
Historically, former President Jimmy Carter’s initial act in office was to grant a blanket pardon to those who evaded the Vietnam War draft, a move aimed at healing a divided nation. Amid ongoing discussions about immigration reform, it would be prudent for Biden to follow suit and offer a similar pardon to countless at-risk immigrants before January 19.
Boston immigration attorney Matt Cameron highlighted that the U.S. Constitution grants the president the power to pardon “Offenses against the United States,” which could potentially include civil violations of the Immigration and Nationality Act. He recently claimed, “A mass pardon could provide immigrants with a clear pathway to citizenship,” emphasizing the benefits that could arise from such an action.
“This blanket pardon has significant advantages,” Cameron stated. “Undocumented individuals married to U.S. citizens would be exempt from penalties associated with unlawful presence, thereby eliminating the arduous 10-year wait outside the U.S. for many.”
In the NYU Law Review, legal scholars Peter L. Markowitz and Lindsey Nash expressed a similar view. They advocated for the use of pardon power to address civil immigration offenses, citing it as a crucial component of presidential mercy to counteract excessively punitive laws.
As stringent immigration laws continue to tear apart families and traditional policy responses remain stagnant, President Biden stands at a pivotal crossroads. The opportunity to grant a collective pardon exists, which could shield millions from potential deportation and solidify his legacy as a defender of justice and compassion.
Now is the moment for President Biden to exercise his power to protect immigrants and enhance his historical significance through a lasting act of mercy.
