BY LYNN MARCUS, PRESIDENT
01/20/2024
Last week, a Tucson Immigration Court judge granted asylum to an Afghani man at risk of persecution from the Taliban if deported. “Aamir” was a member of the Afghan National Army and was abroad receiving education and training in collaboration with NATO when the Taliban took over Afghanistan. The Taliban considers former members of their country’s army to be their enemies and especially targets people who have collaborated with foreign governments or organizations, including by receiving education and training. In fact, the Taliban had raided Aamir’s family home and asked whether anyone from the Afghan army lived there. His parents warned him not to return. He was also a member of a minority ethnic group that has been persecuted by the Taliban.
APA volunteer attorney Erika Kreider screened the case in October of 2023 and helped him apply for work authorization. APA collaborating attorney Pamela Saeed, who has substantial experience representing Afghani asylum seekers, took the case for a low fee and arranged for volunteer interpreters and translators. In addition, Pam volunteered to represent Aamir for free in applying for legal permanent residence when he becomes eligible in one year.
