Weekly Update for March 2, 2026
The Data
No confirmed detentions reported to the PIRC hotline 2/23-3/1!
*While this does not mean that no one was detained in Oregon, it does mean that
we did not receive reports with names/1st hand details. We encourage folks to call the hotline with biographical information when possible, so we can track confirmed detentions without the risk of duplication/inaccurate data*
16 detentions reported to the hotline during February 2026.
Map of February detentions
Metro area; all detentions reported to PIRC in February occurred in Multnomah or Clackamas counties
Of note
We believe 8 of the 16 confirmed detentions this month occurred during check ins at the Macadam ICE field office.
PIRC and CLEAR Clinic Legal Observers connected with at least 563 people who were headed into this facility at Macadam for immigration check ins in February. That means about 1% of all checkins that connected with PIRC resulted in a detention; 99% were able to get in and out of their appointments and continue on with their immigration process.
Things we are tracking this week
DHS Proposed Rule Changes to Work Permits for Asylum Seekers
“The proposed rule would change filing and eligibility requirements for aliens requesting employment authorization and an employment authorization document (EAD) based on a pending asylum application. The changes include pausing acceptance of EAD applications from asylum applicants during periods when affirmative asylum average processing time exceeds 180 days, extending the waiting period to apply for employment authorization to 365 days, changing EAD application processing time requirements, and adding eligibility requirements.”- Federal Register
What will this mean?
Asylum seekers have entered the country through the legal processes put in place by the US government, yet are not permitted to even apply for work permits until 6 months after they submit their asylum application (processes that cost money and time).
Imagine being given permission to live somewhere but told that you cannot legally work for a year, and additionally you do not qualify for benefits . How do you pay bills? Feed your family? Work towards your future?
Public comment is open until April 24, 2026 to make our voices heard and say: this proposed rule puts people in harm's way and is another cruel tactic to increase suffering for those who were brave enough to come to this country and agree to the process our government put before them.
For more information and to submit comment:
PIRC Friends of the Week: Worth Fighting for St Johns
Together with our partners at Worth Fighting For St Johns, Together Lab, and ASSC, PIRC had the opportunity to share a meal and organize with families of the detained this weekend. Huge appreciation to all who helped make it happen, from LO’s on site; volunteers who provided childcare and self-care kits to families and raffle prizes; El Punto Venezolano for the delicious food; and most of all to the families themselves who brought each other the gift of community and shared experience. In the midst of all the awfulness, this event was a beautiful reminder of what we’re fighting for.