This summary was featured in Documented’s Early Arrival newsletter. You can subscribe to receive it in your inbox three times per week here.
Undocumented immigrants who worked for Trump were shocked to learn they had paid more in taxes than he had, according to The New York Daily News. Jesus Lira, an undocumented immigrant who worked as a cook at Trump’s Westchester County golf club, said, “The president, my former boss, isn’t paying any taxes. How is that even possible?” The New York Times revealed that the president paid just $750 in federal income tax in 2016 and 2017, and none at all in 10 out of the past 15 years. Lira and three other undocumented immigrants who worked for Trump shared records with the Daily News that indicated they paid thousands in federal income taxes while working for the president. New York Daily News
In other local immigration news…
New Yorkers Relieved After Court Rejects Citizenship Fee Increase
Tens of thousands of New Yorkers rejoiced at the news that a California judge had blocked a fee increase for citizenship applications. The judge ruled on Tuesday that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services could not move forward with a nearly $500 increase on the current $725 fee and other increased charges that had been announced July 31. The fee would be a significant blow for low-wage immigrants hoping to get their citizenship. “Although a small victory, it’s a big win for immigrants,” said Monique Francis, the deputy director of CUNY’s Citizenship Now!, a legal assistance program. People have been rushing to apply since the ruling. THE CITY
City Provides $16 Million for Immigrant Legal Services
In New York City, 21 community-based organizations received $16 million in ActionNYC grants from the city to provide legal services to undocumented immigrant New Yorkers. The organizations will provide free, comprehensive immigration legal screenings, legal representation, accurate immigration-related information and referrals to other resources. They include Chhaya Community Development Corporation, Make the Road New York, Jacob A Riis Neighborhood Settlement, MinKwon Center for Community Action, and Sunnyside Community Services. “At a time when immigrant families continue to face cruel, xenophobic threats by the Trump Administration, New York City continues to stand with our immigrant communities,” said Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Bitta Mostofi. Queens Eagle
