Expanding universal representation programs in communities across the country is crucial to building the national movement to uphold due process for all people at imminent risk of deportation. These programs bolster the vibrancy and stability of communities, keep families united, and build toward the goal that everyone at risk of deportation has a strong, effective advocate. Universal representation promotes racial equity, preventing the further amplification of racially disparate outcomes. As a result, everyone involved with the immigration system achieves better results.

As jurisdictions demonstrate success building scalable and replicable programs that offer representation for all, CPD, NILC, and Vera expect that support for the universal representation model will continue to expand nationwide. These models will help lay the groundwork for a federally funded system of representation and ultimately a right to government-funded counsel that is desperately needed in the national immigration justice system.