Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR) is appalled by the recent actions apparently spearheaded by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to fly dozens of immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts.  It is unconscionable to treat human beings – especially members of such a vulnerable population – like pawns to make a political point.

LCR attorneys and staff are currently on the ground in Martha’s Vineyard, meeting with the affected immigrants.  We are helping to connect them with local services to ensure their immediate needs are met.  At the same time, we are also investigating the inhumane manner in which they were shipped across the country, to determine the responsible parties, whether state or federal criminal laws against human trafficking and kidnapping were violated, and what other legal remedies are available.

To undertake this effort, in rapid-response fashion, LCR is convening pro bono attorneys, immigration specialists, law enforcement, and social service providers.  The situation on Martha’s Vineyard is unfolding rapidly.  We will continue to post additional information as it becomes available.