Hundreds of lawyers turn out for forum on helping immigrants and refugees
Hundreds of attorneys gathered at a Center City hotel Friday for a forum focused on turning the surge of interest in providing legal assistance to those impacted by the Trump administration’s immigration policies into action.
Hundreds of attorneys gathered at a Center City hotel Friday for a forum focused on turning into action the surge of interest in providing legal assistance to those affected by the Trump administration's immigration policies.
"Right now we need the talented lawyers of our city and surrounding counties to step up — as you are — and step in on behalf of our vulnerable residents who so desperately need all of your help," Mayor Kenney told the crowd.
The event was organized by the Philadelphia Bar Association, the city, and several nonprofit partners, and was the launching point for a newly formed coalition called Take Action Philly. In the less than two weeks since the forum was announced, the Bar Association received more than 700 inquiries, according to staff.
In the audience, Stanley Weinberg, a retired attorney from Elkins Park, said he had been dismayed by President Trump's executive orders on immigration and is thinking of reactivating his law license so he can help those affected. His background is in criminal defense and patent law, but he said his lack of knowledge of immigration law is not a deterrent. He's willing to learn.
"This might be an opportunity to get back to work," he said. "And help people who need help."
Organizers told the lawyers in the room Friday that there will be no shortage of opportunities, from helping those applying for citizenship to providing planning assistance for families being deported to assisting immigrants and refugees on tax filings. The many nonlawyers in the room were given a list of nearly two dozen local organizations who work with immigrants and refugees that are seeking volunteers.
"We have to stand together as a city, as citizens of this great country, as lawyers and nonlawyers, as people of good will who can stop this," Kenney told the group. "Or at least slow it down."
