On Sunday, January 19, President Joseph Biden granted Ravi Ragbir a presidential pardon. A prominent immigrant rights leader who has been organizing faith communities to support immigrants for nearly two decades, Mr. Ragbir has been fighting his deportation since 2006. The presidential pardon will allow Mr. Ragbir to remain home in the United States with his U.S. citizen wife, daughter, and the broader faith and immigrant rights communities he has served.
This news comes at a moment when the immigrant rights movement is bracing for the incoming administration’s threat of mass deportations. Mr. Ragbir’s pardon serves as an example of how the nation can and should protect immigrant community members, keeping families and communities together, rather than tearing them apart.
“I am so grateful to President Biden for this pardon, which has lifted a burden that I have carried for so many years. The uncertainty and instability of not knowing what tomorrow would bring has kept me, my family, and awake for many nights, and we can now breathe. This would not have happened without the support from our legal team, and from the community that has stood with me throughout this journey.” said Mr. Ragbir.
Mr. Ragbir’s family celebrated news of his pardon. His wife, Amy Gottlieb, is also an immigrant rights advocate and serves as U.S. Migration Director of American Friends Service Committee. “This news has brought us so much joy, after living in perpetual limbo. We can now move forward with our lives without fear of detention, surveillance or deportation, and continue our work to support others facing this same circumstance,” said Ms. Gottlieb.
Faith leaders, many of whom led the efforts to urge President Biden to pardon Mr. Ragbir, praised President Biden’s decision. “I could not be more relieved for Ravi and his family. I’m so proud of the incredible work of his legal team and supporters and truly grateful to the White House for doing the right thing. It goes to show, once again, the power of advocacy. People across the U.S. made this happen.” Rev. Cece Jones-Davis,Special Advisor of Advocacy and Strategy, #istandwithravi Faith Working Group and Defense Committee Member.
Rev. Robert Foltz-Morrison stated, “I am grateful to God and the hundreds of supporters and the President who believed in the redemptive work Ravi has seen in his own life and, in turn, undertaken and shown in his work with the immigrant community in America.”
Rev. Kaji Dousa, Senior Pastor of Park Avenue Christian Church and a pastor to Ravi and Amy since 2009, said: “It would be impossible to overstate the relief, joy, and gratitude my church and I have for this beautiful act of mercy from President Biden. For so long, Ravi and Amy and the people who love them have struggled under the crushing weight of uncertainty. My heart is full knowing now that Ravi can walk the streets of this city a fully free man, in the eyes of the law. This is a new day for him and for all of us, and we couldn’t be more thankful.”
“Ravi has provided such courageous leadership to the people of our diocese and the larger community. I am proud to call him a colleague and friend. Having him and Amy at St. Ann & the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church with us this morning was a blessing. It was truly a joy to make the announcement about his pardon in the context of my sermon to a cheering congregation. Thank you, President Biden, for seeing the goodness in Ravi that we see,” said the Rev. Canon Marie A. Tatro, Canon for Community Justice Ministry, Episcopal Diocese of Long Island and Priest Associate, St. Ann & the Holy Trinity Church, Pro-Cathedral of the EDLI, Brooklyn, NY.
Rev. Paul Fleck, Executive Director of Immigration Law & Justice New York, said “Once in ever so great a while we are sent a prophetic voice the likes of Ravi Ragbir. Ravi continues to remind us–even in receiving this pardon–who we are and whose we are, and that you can’t deport a movement. Thank you, Ravi.”
Mr. Ragbir’s pardon application has been pending since 2016, and has garnered widespread community support. New York community, labor, and faith based organizations celebrated the news of Mr. Ragbir’s pardon as a victory for human dignity, fairness, and the movement to protect immigrant rights.
“Ravi is a pillar of the community, and an untiring voice for human rights for all. His pardon will allow him to continue that work without fear of unjust retaliation, and our nation will be better off as a result,” said April Verrett, SEIU President.
“Congratulations to Ravi and his family. This is a welcome moment of justice for the immigrant rights movement. We’re looking forward to working with Ravi into the future to win many more,” said 32BJ SEIU Secretary-Treasurer John Santos.
“Faith leaders who have advocated tirelessly for Ravi Ragbir’s Presidential pardon, rejoice in this profoundly good news. We give thanks for President Biden’s powerful act of restorative justice that not only frees Ravi Ragbir from the unwarranted threat of deportation, but returns him to the community where he has always served at a time when we need him most,” said Rev. Dr. Chloe Breyer, Executive Director of the Interfaith Center of New York.
“We are beyond grateful for this news to come just 24 hours before Trump begins to enact his plans of further supercharging mass deportation. This moment would not have been possible without first and foremost, Ravi and his leadership – his organizing, dedication, persistence and ability to feel hope amidst a backdrop of unrelenting threats – not only for himself but for the communities he has fought for tirelessly. Ravi’s voice, speaking truth to power and shining light on the unfair impact of our immigration laws and the double punishment faced by so many immigrants impacted by the criminal-legal and immigration systems, has strengthened a movement and inspired us all,” said Benita Jain of the Immigrant Defense Project. “Today, we ground ourselves in gratitude for Ravi’s loved ones, his defense committee, and those who have responded to the calls for action—locally in New York and across the country—with love, support and action that grew louder and stronger as the days passed.”
Many elected officials have long championed Mr. Ragbir’s pardon in light of his service to immigrant and faith communities.
“With a stroke of a pen, President Biden has brought relief to Ravi Ragbir, a prominent New York immigrant rights advocate who has helped thousands. I was proud to work for years with Ravi and many supporting organizations in New York as he navigated the legal and immigration systems looking for well-earned relief. With this pardon, Ravi is now free to remain in his home in Brooklyn, and continue to help others and to enrich our city,” said U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. “My thoughts today are with Ravi, his wife Amy, and the many New Yorkers who have worked tirelessly for this moment.”
“Ravi has been a tireless champion for immigrant rights, and I applaud former President Biden for granting Ravi a pardon,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “His work within faith-based communities will impact our nation for generations to come. I am proud of the work that my office did to help advocate for Ravi, and I am thrilled that he has finally been given the peace of knowing he can remain at home in the United States with his beloved family and community.”
“I am overjoyed that President Biden has granted Ravi’s clemency request. No one should be targeted for deportation based on our constitutionally protected right to free speech, and I am grateful to the President for making clear that activism and fighting for justice are not grounds for immigration enforcement in our country. I am glad that Ravi and his family will no longer live with the constant threat of his removal based on a nonviolent, decades-old conviction. I look forward to seeing Ravi’s continued contributions to our shared community,” said U.S. Senator Cory Booker.
“I am elated that after nearly 20 years of fighting, Ravi Ragbir has received a pardon from President Biden that enables him to remain with his loved ones in his home–New York City,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “As the former Executive Director of New Sanctuary Coalition, Ravi has helped thousands of immigrants forge a new life in our country, many of whom live right here in my district. With this pardon, Ravi can continue fighting for immigrant communities in NY-10 and throughout the country free from the anxiety that he could be torn from his family at any moment. It is an honor to have helped secure this pardon, and as we face the coming four years, I will continue to fight on behalf of Ravi and immigrants across our city and our country.”
Democratic Leader Congressman Hakeem Jeffries said, “Ravi Ragbir is a nationally recognized immigration reform advocate who believes that all people should live with dignity and respect. For the past sixteen years, he has worked closely with faith leaders, civic groups, labor organizations and elected officials in support of a humane immigration system. The pardon granted by President Biden recognizes Ravi’s contributions to our country in the two decades since his conviction and will permit him to continue his partnership with the faith-based community.”
“For years, I’ve fought for Ravi Ragbir as he faced constant threats simply for fighting for immigrant rights and speaking truth to power. His dedication to our community and his tireless advocacy have been a source of inspiration for so many. Today, President Biden’s decision gives Ravi the freedom to continue his vital work without fear moving forward. This is a victory not just for Ravi, but for everyone who believes in justice and equality,” said Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez.
Congresswoman Yvette Clarke stated, “Thank you to President Biden for his moral and just decision to issue Ravi Ragbir his long-deserved, long-awaited pardon. At a time when immigrants across America are fearing for their futures in this country, it brings me great relief to know one of their most devoted champions will be permitted to continue his critical work that has, for years, bettered their lives and furthered their equitable treatment under the law. Despite suffering more than two decades of inhumane instability and uncertainty at the hands of our nation’s broken immigration system, Ravi never wavered in his fight to ensure every immigrant in America is treated with the fairness, dignity, and respect they deserve. Truly, his career has been defined in his unyielding advocacy and efforts on behalf of the rights of all immigrants across America. I was proud to serve as a longtime leader in the national movement to secure his pardon, just as I am proud today to say we have succeeded in that essential mission. As Mr. Ragbir begins his next chapter, free from persecution and free to continue the critical work that has improved the lives of countless individuals and families in this country, I look forward to witnessing the new heights he can achieve unburdened by this hardship that has too long loomed above his head. I thank him for his service to our nation’s most vulnerable communities, and I pledge to always stand at his side and the side of our immigrant neighbors when injustice threatens their American Dream.”
“I am proud to have stood in support and solidarity with Ravi Ragbir and his family during this difficult time and am appreciative to President Biden for his pardon,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13).
“We are thrilled to learn that President Biden has pardoned Ravi Ragbir, an immigrants rights leader with deep roots in New York. This outcome is what Ravi, his family, and our community have been fighting to see for years,” said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14). “Ravi embodies what it truly means to be an American. He stands up for what is right and prioritizes the needs of vulnerable communities even when it does not benefit him. And in turn, his story has been fraught with the consequences of our country’s policy of recklessly tethering immigration enforcement to our criminal justice system. In the coming years, Ravi’s voice will be needed more than ever as we collectively pursue a more just immigration system.”
New York Attorney General Letitia James said, “Ravi Ragbir has worked tirelessly to support this community, and to urge greater inclusion and support for our immigrant communities. With this well-deserved pardon, Ravi will be able to continue his good work without the threat of deportation hanging over him. I have been proud to urge for Ravi’s pardon, and I commend President Biden for taking this meaningful action in support of true justice.”
“So many people have spent years working toward this day, without knowing whether we’d ever get this result,” said New York City Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. “I’m filled with joy and relief that my friend Ravi Ragbir, an inspiring leader who I’ve stood by in the street and who has stood by me in court, has received a pardon. I thank everyone who has been a part of this effort, and the White House for doing the right thing in Ravi’s case. On the precipice of a new and fearful era, especially for immigrant communities, this news shows that victories are possible. I hope we all celebrate this the way I know Ravi will—by continuing the fight for every immigrant unjustly targeted, and by bringing renewed energy to our work to provide safety, sanctuary, and justice for those in greatest need.”
“New York City owes Ravi Ragbir a debt of gratitude for his courage and leadership in championing immigrant justice despite the constant threat of deportation. I’m grateful for President Biden’s pardon of Ravi and am so happy he and his family can finally take a breath of relief. The work to keep families together and our communities safer continues. My office will use all the tools at our disposal to push back against anti-immigrant policies and Trump’s mass deportation agenda. I look forward to continuing to fight alongside Ravi for a just and humane immigration system that welcomes those fleeing persecution, keeps families together, and helps our economy thrive,” said NYC Comptroller Brad Lander
“I applaud President Biden for pardoning Ravi Ragbir,” said New York City Council Member Shahana Hanif. “Ravi has been a pillar of the immigrant rights movement for years. I am deeply grateful for his advocacy and am relieved that he will be able to continue his work in New York without fear of deportation.”
Mr. Ragbir’s legal team underscored the significance of this victory. “For seventeen years, I have represented Ravi Ragbir as he tirelessly fought for other immigrants and their families. With this pardon, President Biden recognizes Ravi’s selfless service and gives hope to an entire movement of which Ravi is so deeply a part.” said Alina Das, Co-Director of the Immigrant Rights Clinic at New York University School of Law.
Jessica Rofé, Director of the Constitutional Rights Clinic at Rutgers Law School, stated, “It is a profound privilege to represent Ravi—an incredible force in the immigrant rights movement—to know and walk with Amy, and to be part of the movement to keep Ravi home. I am so grateful to President Biden for granting this pardon, and so grateful to all the people who supported Ravi’s pardon application, for their struggle, for their commitment, and for their dedication.”
“We are beyond grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside Ravi, Amy, the legal team, faith leaders, and everyone who supported this process. It was truly a privilege to represent such a wonderful advocate and human being, and to become a part of this community. Neither of us expected that we’d find a new family through this work, and we are so incredibly elated to have done so,” said Mariel Gonzalez-Medellin and Djibril Branche, student representatives for Ravi Ragbir through the Immigrant Rights Clinic at the New York University School of Law.
The grant of the pardon comes at the end of a long and complex struggle through the immigration and criminal legal systems. Mr. Ragbir has lived in the United States for more than thirty years and received lawful permanent resident status in 1994. In 2000, he was convicted of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the prosecution of another individual who had submitted fraudulent loan applications to the company where Mr. Ragbir worked as a low level salesman. At his 2001 sentencing, federal judge William Bassler commented that Mr. Ragbir was a casualty of the other man’s fraud. Judge Bassler sentenced Mr. Ragbir to the minimum sentence, which Mr. Ragbir served from 2004-2006 following his appeals. Judge Bassler wrote in support of Mr. Ragbir’s pardon.
In 2006, instead of releasing Mr. Ragbir at the end of his criminal sentence, federal officials transferred Mr. Ragbir to county jails, where he was subjected to two additional years of immigration detention. Federal immigration law prohibited the immigration judge in Mr. Ragbir’s case from considering his family and community ties before ordering his deportation, based solely on his fraud conviction.
Mizue Aizeki, Executive Director of the Surveillance Resistance Lab and a founding member of Ravi’s Defense Committee states, “President Biden’s pardon of Mr. Ragbir is a clarion call to undo the cruelty of an exceptionally punitive immigration regime and to build a world in which all people are given a right to thrive. As we enter into a period where an ever growing number of people will be deemed as unworthy of belonging—migrants, immigrants, trans people, people seeking abortions, those with criminal convictions, organizers, and more—we must see this pardon as fuel for a movement that refuses to abandon our communities and does not stop mobilizing and fighting for a world that belongs to all. I am so grateful to be able to continue this fight alongside Ravi.”
“This pardon really shows the power of community and the power of a movement of which Ravi has been a critical part. I am humbled by the incredible number of people who stepped up to support Ravi and ensure that he can continue to stand alongside other individuals facing detention and deportation,” said Kyle Barron, member of Ravi’s Defense Committee.
After Mr. Ragbir appealed his deportation order, federal immigration released Mr. Ragbir from detention on an order of supervision in 2008, concluding he was neither a flight risk or danger to the community. Mr. Ragbir emerged from his experience in immigration detention to become a community advocate and organizer for immigrant families and faith communities. He organized with Families for Freedom and then served as the Executive Director of the New Sanctuary Coalition of New York City. He currently serves as Ecumenical Canon for Immigration Ministry for the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island.
In 2018, Mr. Ragbir’s advocacy made national headlines when federal immigration officials under the Trump Administration decided to abruptly revoke Mr. Ragbir’s authorization to live in the U.S. and attempted to deport him along with another immigrant rights leader affiliated with the sanctuary movement in New York City, Jean Montrevil. A federal judge ordered Mr. Ragbir’s release, finding that he had “lived the life of a redeemed man” and that ICE’s actions were “unnecessarily cruel” and were the kind of actions one would expect from “regimes we revile as unjust.” In 2019, a federal appellate court held that Mr. Ragbir had raised strong claims that ICE’s decision to target Mr. Ragbir amounted to unconstitutional First Amendment retaliation for his immigrant rights advocacy. ICE later settled the case by granting Mr. Ragbir three years of deferred action in 2021, which it extended until March 13, 2025.
With the incoming Trump Administration poised to launch mass deportations, President Biden’s pardon of Mr. Ragbir provides hope to all those who seek to protect immigrant communities.
“The New York Immigration Coalition applauds President Biden’s decision to pardon immigrant rights advocate Ravi Ragbir, former executive director of the New Sanctuary Coalition. Ragbir, a longtime New York City activist, was one of several prominent immigrant-rights activists targeted for deportation in apparent retaliation for their advocacy during the Trump administration. Today’s decision is an important step in recognizing the constitutional legitimacy of advocacy and the government overreach that resulted in Ragbir’s detention and his legal case to stay his removal order. We look forward to his continued activism in support of immigrant communities across New York and the country at this crucial time in our country,” said Murad Awawdeh, CEO and President, New York Immigration Coalition.
Paromita Shah, Executive Director of Just Futures Law stated: “Ravi Ragbir is an asset to his community and his community has shown up for him. This wouldn’t be possible with the persistent and determined advocacy of groups and organizers. We are grateful that before leaving office, President Biden has taken action to demonstrate one of this country’s core principles: freedom of expression without government retaliation.”
“We applaud President Biden’s decision to pardon Mr. Ragbir, an immigrant rights advocate whom ICE attempted to deport under the previous administration because of his vocal opposition to the agency’s deportation tactics. Pardoning Mr. Ragbir sends an important message about the constitutional legitimacy of his advocacy and the illegitimacy of targeting immigrants like him based on their criticism of government policy,” said Ramya Krishnan, Senior Staff Attorney, the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia Law School.
“The Center for Constitutional Rights is overjoyed at the presidential pardon of longtime partner and past Center for Constitutional Rights honoree Ravi Ragbir. For years, the Center for Constitutional Rights has been inspired by Ravi’s vision, resilience, and strength. His freedom sends a signal that when activists, lawyers and storytellers come together to fight for social justice, we can win!” said Ian Head, Center for Constitutional Rights Open Records Manager and longtime member of Ragbir’s Defense Committee.
“We are gratified that President Biden has pardoned Ravi Ragbir. The pardon recognizes Mr Ragbir’s standing in our community and should prevent a repeat of the cruel and inhumane targeting of him by the Trump deportation machine in retaliation for his courageous opposition to Trump’s cruel policies,” said Donna Lieberman, Executive Director of the New York Civil Liberties Union.
“I am grateful to President Biden for granting a pardon to our friend Ravi Ragbir. Dozens of organizations and community members have been advocating for Ravi’s pardon for well over a decade, across multiple presidents, and I am proud to be among them. Over the years, Ravi’s tireless and selfless work has united communities, advocated for the marginalized, and helped countless individuals. And now, he can continue to have tremendous impact, with this weight lifted. Congratulations to Ravi, his loved ones, and his community, and thank you to President Biden for pursuing justice for Ravi,” said Amol N. Sinha, Executive Director, ACLU-NJ.
“We applaud President Biden’s decision to pardon Ravi Ragbir, a longtime advocate for justice and the dignity of all people. Ravi’s story exemplifies the types of immigration reforms needed. Instead, the country is headed down a path where we may see even greater retaliation of immigrants like Ravi and the deportation of people who are contributing to their families, communities, and country in many ways,” stated Marielena Hincapié, Visiting Legal Scholar at Cornell Law School. “Through this pardon, President Biden has given Ravi and his family the ability to stay together in the country they call home, fighting for the future of our country.”
“I’m extremely thankful that Ravi Ragbir finally has the justice that he deserves. Thank you to President Biden for granting this pardon for Ravi, his family and his community who are all so relieved that Ravi’s long fight against deportation is finally over. Ravi is an essential member of the New York and New Jersey communities and the national immigrant rights space and he will continue to contribute to the betterment of all of our communities,” said Kerri Talbot, Co-Executive Director of the Immigration Hub.
“Ravi’s pardon is a powerful reminder that when our community stands united, we can make the seemingly impossible possible. UnLocal is proud to build upon the legacy of Ravi’s work, particularly through our pro se assistance for New Yorkers facing deportation. His presence strengthens our resolve, and we are ready for the battles ahead, knowing that Ravi will stand with us,” said Tania Mattos,Executive Director of UnLocal.
“The psalms tell us that ‘weeping endures for the night and Joy comes in the morning.’ The psalm is right: no one deserves a pardon as much as Ravi does. We congratulate the president on his wisdom and promise all of us great generativity from this decision. It will make more mornings for many,” said Rev. Dr. Donna Schaper.
“Biden’s pardon of Ravi Ragbir is a bright spot in what has been a long and arduous road for freedom and safety. Ravi has been a longtime friend, teacher, and supporter of Detention Watch Network. He brings people together—whether over a meal, in a place of worship, or chanting on the streets, Ravi exemplifies how immigrants are deeply embedded within communities. Ravi’s pardon demonstrates that when we unite for the rights and dignity of our immigrant family members, friends, and neighbors, anything is possible. One family no longer having to live in limbo is significant—our collective action can change lives. And as we gear up for the Trump administration, we are resolute in our commitment to fight on behalf of all immigrants—everyone deserves to be safe from detention and deportation, including people who have had contact with the criminal legal system,” said Silky Shah, Detention Watch Network.
The Immigrant Justice Network celebrates the pardon of Ravi Ragbir, a steadfast and passionate advocate for immigrant rights and an invaluable partner to our movement. Ravi has been a cornerstone in numerous campaigns, lending his voice, energy, and unwavering support to the fight for justice. Targeted by the first Trump administration for his activism, Ravi’s pardon serves as a powerful affirmation of the dignity and freedom that should be afforded to all people. As we brace for the challenges ahead, we are heartened to have Ravi by our side,” said Oliver Merino, Coordinator of the Immigrant Justice Network.
“We join our friends and partners in celebrating former-President Biden’s decision to grant a pardon to Ravi Ragbir, a beloved friend and cherished ally in our collective fight for justice. Targeted by the first Trump administration for his activism, Ravi’s pardon not only rectifies this grave injustice but also recognizes the constitutional rights of those who bravely advocate for a better world. Ravi’s pardon is the result of his leadership and the village that has fought with him and for him throughout these past few years – it serves as an example of the strength of our collective power as a movement. We are grateful that Ravi will remain safely with his family and community, and look forward to working alongside him as we brave the challenges ahead and continue to fight for a future where all immigrants are safe from detention and deportation,” said Sirine Shebaya, Executive Director of the National Immigration Project.
“After relentless efforts by dedicated advocates, on Sunday, January 19th, President Biden granted a presidential pardon to Ravi Ragbir. Our sincerest congratulations to Ravi, his family, and all the organizations, groups and individuals who have fought so tirelessly for this moment. A pillar of the immigrant rights movement, Ravi has spent nearly two decades mobilizing faith communities in support of immigrants while waging his personal battle against deportation since 2006, a battle that became a fight for his life after he was targeted by the Trump Administration during the last Trump presidency. This pardon ensures that Ravi can remain in the United States, alongside his family, and the countless individuals and communities who have benefited from his unwavering commitment to justice. This victory arrives at a time when immigrant communities are facing the threat of mass deportations, one of Trump’s chief campaign promises. Ravi’s pardon is a powerful reminder of what is possible if we hold onto hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, a reminder that we must never stop fighting, even when we are most afraid. The next four years will test all of us in ways that we could have never imagined, and it is important to commit to this fight for the long haul, even if we are tired—even if we are afraid. Congratulations, Ravi. Thank you for the courage you have shown on behalf of immigrant communities, even when it came at a great personal cost,” said Al Otro Lado.
We are thrilled to announce that Ravi Ragbir has received a presidential pardon. We express our heartfelt gratitude to President Biden for recognizing Ravi’s contributions and advocacy for immigrant communities and granting him a pardon.
We know this victory was made possible because of this incredible community of love, support, and action. We are so grateful to each and every one of you. Many of you have accompanied Ravi on this journey for the past sixteen years: attending check-ins, rallies, vigils, Jericho walks, protests, and teach-ins; packing the court; writing letters of support; spreading the word and sharing petitions – endlessly fighting for this day to come. You were there when Ravi was detained in 2018 and you celebrated with us when Ravi was released. You have shared messages and prayers of hope, solidarity, and comfort with Ravi and Amy during the hardest times. So it is our greatest joy to share this victory with all of you.
Ravi and Amy share their deepest thanks:
To all of our friends and loved ones,
We cannot express enough how grateful we are to have had you holding us up through these last many years. We are breathing deeply and freely now, knowing that we can move forward with our lives, we can plan beyond a few weeks ahead, we can fully experience joys and sorrows.
We are still processing what it means to not live in a perpetual limbo, without threats of permanent separation hanging over our heads, but we know that we did not reach this place of peace without each and every one of you.
And we send extra special love and appreciation to all of the people who have served on our defense committee for so many years.
With love and gratitude, Ravi and Amy
***
We know that this incredible news comes at a significant time. We are bracing for the return of the Trump Administration and its promise of mass deportations. We stand in solidarity with our immigrant community. With collective action, anything is possible. As you all have taught us, you can’t deport a movement.
Press Release: Immigrant Rights Leader Ravi Ragbir Receives Three-Year Deferred Action After Reaching Settlement on First Amendment Suit Challenging ICE Retaliation
February 24, 2022 — Three years after prominent activist Ravi Ragbir and immigrant rights organizations New Sanctuary Coalition of New York City, CASA, Detention Watch Network, the National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, and the New York Immigration Coalition filed suit to challenge the targeting of immigrant rights activists by federal immigration officials, the parties have settled the suit and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) has agreed to grant Mr. Ragbir three years of deferred action in the United States.
“For all of these years my family, friends, and community were worried that I would be targeted by ICE because of my outspokenness. They were right—my public challenges to the system led them to retaliate against me,” said Mr. Ragbir. “This victory is a testimony to the power of the community working together to stand up against ICE and an oppressive policy, to support human rights and dignity for all. I am celebrating this step towards victory, but knowing that this is not the end, and that we must continue in the struggle to end deportation. I want to recognize my privilege of having the smartest and best attorneys representing me, Stanton Jones and William Perdue from the firm Arnold and Porter and Alina Das and Jessica Rofé and the students from the NYU Immigrant Rights Clinic.”
This period of deferred action also gives Mr. Ragbir a chance to pursue other legal remedies in order to gain permanent immigration relief in the United States.
“Ravi and I are deeply grateful to our brilliant legal team, our loving families and friends, and to everyone in our community who have stood with us during these years of struggle and who made it possible for us to have this moment to celebrate,” said Amy Gottlieb, wife of Mr. Ragbir and Associate Regional Director of American Friends Service Committee. “Three years to breathe free as we work toward a permanent solution is a wonderful holiday gift.”
“I am very pleased that after a long struggle Ravi has finally been granted deferred action,” said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. “I have long advocated on behalf of Ravi, he is a passionate leader and immigration activist. Today’s settlement affirms that ICE cannot target someone for deportation simply for speaking out and exercising their 1st Amendment protected rights.”
The lawsuit was supported by numerous faith leaders, immigrant rights organizations, elected officials, activists, and others who spoke out on behalf of protecting immigrants’ First Amendment rights.
“Finally, some good news after more than a year of hardship and tragedy,” said Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition. “Ravi Ragbir is one of our movement’s most outspoken critics of ICE and has paid the consequences of that outspokenness when he was detained and threatened with deportation to a country that he hadn’t lived in for years. Today, Ravi and his family will finally be able to breathe a sigh of temporary relief thanks to the government’s agreement to allow him three years of deferred action. This isn’t the permanent legal status that we hoped for him and the millions of others just like Ravi, who have been struggling to attain a pathway to citizenship. But it’s something. In the meantime, the NYIC will continue to fight for permanent legal protections for the hundreds of thousands of immigrant New Yorkers who continue to live in the shadows while dreaming and hoping for this country to recognize them as the Americans they already are.”
“Ravi has been a strong advocate and leader in the fight to have a truly just immigration system,” said Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez. “I’m proud to have supported and advocated for Ravi during this difficult journey. It has been a long road and I’m grateful to all who protested and showed up for Ravi throughout the years. These three years of deferred action gives everyone involved a chance to breathe, and while we celebrate this huge victory, we must remember that this is not the end of the fight.”
In February 2018, Mr. Ragbir and immigrant rights organizations filed suit against federal immigration agencies because of the targeting that Mr. Ragbir experienced as a result of his outspoken activism against U.S. immigration policies. On January 11, 2018, he was abruptly detained by ICE after years of routine check-ins. ICE’s decision to detain Mr. Ragbir came at the heels of its similarly abrupt arrest and detention of Jean Montrevil, a co-founder of New Sanctuary Coalition, that same month. ICE deported Mr. Montrevil and attempted to do the same to Mr. Ragbir before a federal court ordered his release. Through their actions, ICE officials made clear their resentment of Mr. Ragbir’s and Mr. Montrevil’s activism and critique of the numerous flaws of the U.S. immigration system.
“ICE targeted Ravi for speaking out against the cruel injustices of our immigration system, thereby putting him into a yearslong fight to remain with his family and community. While we are grateful that Ravi will be able to live without fear of deportation for 3 years, we are also committed to finding a permanent solution to his case and all others like him. As we work to make our vision of a humane and compassionate immigration system a reality, it is clear that we need bold and courageous allies like Ravi by our side,” said Sirine Shebaya, Executive Director of the National Immigration Project.
“Ravi’s story is a testament to the unimaginable courage it requires to speak out against injustice. And this three-year reprieve is a testament to the power of community to end the harms of retaliation. We are grateful for this respite. But so long as Ravi, and countless others, remain in legal limbo, we know they are not truly safe,” said Jessica Rofé of the NYU Immigrant Rights Clinic and one of Ravi Ragbir’s lawyers. “We hope the next three years will lead to permanent immigration relief for Ravi and others, whose advocacy and activism reflect the bedrock of American democratic principles.”
Even after Mr. Ragbir’s release from detention in January 2018, ICE continued to pursue Mr. Ragbir’s deportation, prompting the New Sanctuary Coalition of New York City, CASA, Detention Watch Network, the National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, and the New York Immigration Coalition to join Mr. Ragbir in filing suit (Ragbir v. Homan) to challenge the targeting of immigrant rights activists by federal immigration officials. The suit alleged that the specific actions against Mr. Ragbir, along with similar retaliatory actions against activists across the country, were part of a pattern and practice of unlawful targeting in violation of the First Amendment.
The district court denied Mr. Ragbir’s motion for a preliminary injunction and dismissed the claims challenging his deportation under the First Amendment. On appeal, the Second Circuit vacated that decision, concluding that the alleged retaliatory deportation by ICE was sufficiently “outrageous” to violate the First Amendment, and that the Constitution requires judicial review of these claims. However, the Supreme Court remanded the case to the Second Circuit on jurisdictional grounds, questioning whether federal courts have jurisdiction to hear such First Amendment claims. The case was eventually sent back to the Southern District of New York to litigate these jurisdictional issues before the parties officially settled the case.
“This is a victory not just for Ravi, but for immigrants, for their communities, and for the First Amendment,” said William Perdue of Arnold & Porter. “Ravi has had the courage to fight for a fair and humane immigration system, and his case stands as a warning to ICE and public officials of all kinds that they cannot abuse their powers by retaliating against those who speak out against them. Ravi’s relentless advocacy is an inspiration, and his settlement reaffirms that if the First Amendment means anything, it means being free to criticize the government without fear of reprisal.”
“Detention Watch Network is thrilled to hear that long time member, Ravi Ragbir, has been granted deferred action and will have a respite from years of facing deportation including some in immigration detention and on an electronic monitor,” said Silky Shah, Executive Director of the Detention Watch Network. “Ravi is a tireless and selfless defender of freedom not just for himself, but for all immigrants. Congratulations to Ravi and the team that supported him on this important movement victory!”
“For years, communities of faith around the country have been praying for this relief. Why? Because we need Ravi. Because Ravi leads us in doing God’s work. I expect this to be but the first step in our collective gratitude and recognition for Ravi’s crucial work. And so we continue,” shared Reverend Kaji Dousa, Senior Minister and C.E.O. of Park Avenue Christian Church. “Ravi has fearlessly spoken out against the injustice of detention and deportation. He should never have been targeted for his activism. We are thrilled that he has been granted deferred action. We need his voice in the movement now more than ever,” said Alina Das of the NYU Immigrant Rights Clinic and one of Ravi Ragbir’s lawyers.
I have “good news” to share with you. The Government has agreed not to deport me for the next three years, as part of a settlement agreement in my First Amendment lawsuit. That gives us three more years to pursue other forms of relief that I need to be able to remain in the US permanently. You can read more in The Intercept here. We have a lot of work to do, but I know that in community we can get there.
Over the years, Amy and I have experienced so many excruciating moments in our interactions with ICE that we thought we were numb. In fact, when I was released from detention in 2018 I was back to work the next day. So when a friend recently asked Amy how we were going to commemorate that Jan 11, 2022 was four years since ICE tried to deport me in 2018, Amy, my defense committee and I were taken aback. Jan 11 2018 and the days that followed were intense and very traumatic for all of us. I thought that I was unfazed because I had lived through so many such days with ICE. I was even making bad jokes with ICE officers who were there to make sure that I was deported.
But when Amy was describing what happened on that day I watched myself break down. My eyes teared up, my pain exuded from my pores and entered my nose, suffocating me. I could not stop trembling. I am not the only one who suffers from this type of PTSD. This happens to every Friend/person, their loved ones and their communities who have to live with the threat of deportation.
Now we are deeply relieved to have this breathing time, and to know that 2022 is the first year that I will not have to report to ICE at all. I will have to report in 2023 and 2024, and will of course seek your support when that happens.
I know that this ‘victory’ is due to all of the love and support that you, my community, have provided. I look forward to being able to be together sometime soon.
New Complaint Describes Widespread Practice of Retaliation Against Immigrant Activists
July 19, 2021 — The Immigrant Rights Clinic at New York University School of Law (“NYU Immigrant Rights Clinic) and the Cornell Law School First Amendment Clinic (“Cornell First Amendment Clinic”) filed a joint complaint with the Department of Homeland Security Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (OCRCL) alleging a widespread pattern of retaliation by federal immigration officials against immigrant activists and others who publicly criticize U.S. immigration policy. The complaint urges immediate action to protect those who have already been targeted for their activism and policy changes to ensure such retaliation does not occur in the future.
“Far too many immigrants live in fear that if they speak up for their rights, they will be targeted for arrest and deportation,” says Alina Das, Professor of Clinical Law and Co-Director of the NYU Immigrant Rights Clinic. “So long as federal immigration officials are free to target immigrants with impunity, the immigrant rights movement is in peril.”
The NYU Immigrant Rights Clinic documented more than one thousand instances of First Amendment retaliation in recent years, including the cases of prominent activists Claudio Rojas, Jean Montrevil, and Ravi Ragbir. Federal immigration officials in Miami detained and deported Mr. Rojas to Argentina in 2019 after a documentary film, The Infiltrators, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, featuring his activism. Federal immigraiton officials in New York detained Mr. Montrevil and Mr. Ragbir in 2018 after they spoke critically of the agency as part of the sanctuary movement, deporting Mr. Montrevil to Haiti shortly thereafter. DHS continues to pursue Mr. Ragbir’s deportation to Trinidad and Tobago. The complaint asks DHS to exercise its discretion to protect these individuals and others from the harm of First Amendment retaliation, and seeks broader policy changes.
“The First Amendment has always been the foundation of progress and the cornerstone of democracy in the United States,” says Jared Carter, Associate Director of the Cornell Law School First Amendment Clinic. “The Biden Administration must end policies that violate the basic First Amendment principle that no person should be subject to government retaliation for exercising their First Amendment rights to freedom of speech or freedom of assembly.”
Thank you for your support of Ravi and Amy over the years. We are writing to let you know that we recently received word that the Supreme Court has sent Ravi’s First Amendment case back down to the Second Circuit for a second look.
Today’s order from the Supreme Court does not call into question the Second Circuit’s ruling that deporting immigrant-rights activists in retaliation for their political speech violates the First Amendment. Such retaliation remains illegal and wrong. The only question posed by today’s order is whether federal courts have jurisdiction to hear such First Amendment claims, and for multiple reasons, they clearly do, and Ravi’s legal team welcomes the opportunity to brief the jurisdictional issue further in the Second Circuit.
While today’s order will prolong the case, we remain hopeful that justice will continue to prevail at the Second Circuit and that nothing will change the ultimate outcome: ICE cannot weaponize the immigration laws to silence its critics. And, while this case again proceeds before the Second Circuit, a judicial stay of Ravi’s deportation remains in place.
Please stay in touch as we share further updates. Ravi and Amy are particularly grateful for your support during this time because the ongoing uncertainty and looming threat of deportation has been and continues to be overwhelming. Your support is a source of comfort and inspiration through the worst of times.
Together, back in 2018, we told ICE that they can’t deport a movement. It’s true. The movement is still here, and so is Ravi, and we will keep fighting. Thank you for standing with us.
Ravi has a case in the Third Circuit with oral argument set for Wednesday, October 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, at approximately 9am. The case is on appeal from the federal court in New Jersey, which denied Ravi post-conviction relief that would have given him the opportunity to reverse his deportation order.
Depending on the number of people who can come, the New Sanctuary Coalition and Ravi’s Defense Committee will coordinate a bus or carpools.
If you are interested in attending, please sign up here by Wednesday, October 23. Once you have signed up, you will receive information about traveling to Philadelphia to the hearing on October 30.
New York, NY — A federal appeals court has ruled in favor of immigrant-rights activist Ravi Ragbir, concluding that the First Amendment prohibits the government from targeting immigration activists for deportation based on their political speech. “To allow this retaliatory conduct to proceed would broadly chill protected speech, among not only activists subject to final orders of deportation but also those citizens and other residents who would fear retaliation against others,” the decision states. It goes on to explain:
Ragbir’s speech implicates the apex of protection under the First Amendment. His advocacy for reform of immigration policies and practices is at the heart of current political debate among American citizens and other residents. Thus, Ragbir’s speech on a matter of “public concern” is at “the heart of . . . First Amendment[] protection,” and “occupies the highest rung of the hierarchy of First Amendment values.’” Because Ragbir’s speech concerns “political change,” it is also “core political speech” and thus “trenches upon an area in which the importance of First Amendment protections is at its zenith.” Indeed, his “speech critical of the exercise of the State’s power lies at the very center of the First Amendment.” (citations omitted).
The court of appeals concluded: “Ragbir’s speech implicates the highest protection of the First Amendment,” and “he has adduced plausible — indeed, strong — evidence that officials responsible for the decision to deport him did so based on their disfavor of Ragbir’s speech (and its prominence.”
The decision further held that a federal statute stripping courts of their power to hear these First Amendment claims is itself unconstitutional. The court of appeals sent the case back to the district court to consider the case in light of its conclusions, directing the district court to stay Mr. Ragbir’s deportation as it considers the next steps in the case.Continue reading →
Federal Appeals Court Grants Immigrant Rights Activist Ravi Ragbir Stay of Removal
On November 1, 2018, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit granted Ravi Ragbir a stay of removal days after hearing oral argument in Ragbir v. Homan, a First Amendment challenge to retaliation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) against immigrant rights activists. The court has not yet issued a ruling on the First Amendment claim. The stay ensures that Mr. Ragbir will not be deported while the case is pending.
Mr. Ragbir, Executive Director of the New Sanctuary Coalition, was abruptly detained by ICE in January 2018 for deportation based on a decade-old deportation order. A federal court in New York ordered Mr. Ragbir’s release later that month, and a federal court in New Jersey ordered a stay of removal in a pending case challenging the conviction underlying Mr. Ragbir’s deportation order. ICE has continued, however, to pursue Mr. Ragbir’s deportation, requiring him to report “for removal” if no stay was in place.
In February 2018, Mr. Ragbir, joined by New Sanctuary Coalition, CASA, Detention Watch Network, National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, and New York Immigration Coalition, sued ICE, arguing that ICE’s actions against Mr. Ragbir and other immigrant activists violated the First Amendment. In May 2018, after a federal court denied the plaintiffs’ request for preliminary protections pending the First Amendment litigation for Mr. Ragbir, the plaintiffs appealed to the Second Circuit and sought a stay while appeal is pending. The Second Circuit granted a stay on November 1, 2018.
Ravi has a case in the Third Circuit with oral argument set for Wednesday, October 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, at approximately 9am. The case is on appeal from the federal court in New Jersey, which denied Ravi post-conviction relief that would have given him the opportunity to reverse his deportation order.
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