Challenging “Operation Lone Star” through Law & Advocacy

Learn about the impact of Governor Abbott’s “Operation Lone Star” on individuals and communities along the border as well as the unique partnerships and advocacy strategies challenging the policy’s implementation. Panelists include Kristin Etter (Texas RioGrande Legal Aid), Claudia Muñoz (Grassroots Leadership), and Maria Renteria ’21 (RAICES – Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services) with Prof. Katy Dyer (Criminal Defense Clinic) and Prof. Elissa Steglich (Immigration Clinic).

Please register by March 1 to reserve a lunch: RSVP

Background: Launched by Governor Abbott in 2021, “Operation Lone Star” directs the Texas Department of Public Safety to “use available resources to enforce all applicable federal and state laws to prevent the criminal activity along the border, including criminal trespassing, smuggling, and human trafficking, and to assist Texas counties in their efforts to address those criminal activities.” To date, Operation Lone Star has resulted in the arrest and detention of hundreds of individuals, most of whom arrived in this county seeking internationally recognized asylum.

Presented by the William Wayne Justice Center, Immigration Law Clinic, and Criminal Defense Clinic

Cosponsored by the Public Defense Group