The University of Hawaii William S. Richardson School of Law is extending a helping hand to immigrants seeking U.S. citizenship, recognizing the barriers many face in the process. Approximately a quarter of Hawaii’s population was born outside of the United States, with some encountering obstacles preventing them from applying for citizenship.
Danicole Ramos, an Equal Justice Works Fellow affiliated with the school’s Refugee & Immigration Clinic, recently discussed the resources available through the institution on HNN’s Sunrise Weekends. Ramos emphasized the importance of offering free services to the community, particularly given the often prohibitive costs associated with legal assistance. She highlighted the opportunity for individuals to collaborate with law students interested in immigration law, facilitating both assistance for immigrants and educational opportunities for aspiring lawyers.
Through its clinical law program, the University of Hawaii provides law students with opportunities to engage with real-life immigration cases at no cost. Additionally, the school is organizing a free naturalization workshop aimed at the public, with a special focus on veterans and military personnel. Scheduled for April 13 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu, the workshop is being held in partnership with the Pacific Gateway Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering low-income residents, immigrants, and refugees.
The expansion of the Refugee and Immigrant Clinic’s services to include legal assistance for noncitizen veterans who have served in the U.S. military is part of an effort supported by Equal Justice Works. This initiative underscores a commitment to supporting students and extending legal aid to those who have served their country.