Refugees go through an intense application and vetting process by the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) before being resettled in the United States. However, immigration officials are now required to re-examine the refugee status of all refugees who entered the U.S. between January 21, 2021 and February 20, 2025—the entirety of the Biden Administration.

This training will focus on the refugee re-vetting process being undertaken by the current Administration and how pro bono attorneys can assist refugee families at risk. Participants will learn about the legal foundations of refugee status, the initial vetting process, and the pathway to citizenship for refugees resettled in the U.S. The training will then take a deep dive into the re-vetting process and the various critical roles attorneys play in this process. The training will conclude with an overview of the Refugee Re-Vetting Pro Bono Project and more information about how to get involved.

To attend this event in-person or virtually, registration is required. This course is eligible for 1.5 AK CLE Ethics credits.

Faculty:

• Sara Shinkfield, State Refugee Coordinator, Alaska Office of Refugees, Catholic Social Services
• Cindy Woods, Senior Staff Attorney, Immigrants' Rights, ACLU of Alaska