The death of Pope Francis is being felt around the world—not just by members of the Catholic Church, but by countless immigrants and families who saw him as a true voice for justice and compassion. He wasn’t just a spiritual leader; he was someone who cared deeply about the struggles of real people, especially those forced to leave their home countries in search of safety or opportunity. At The Law Offices of James A. Welcome, we remember him not only for his faith, but for his strong and steady support for immigrants, refugees, and anyone living on the edge of society.
Pope Francis often spoke from the heart about immigration—not as a political issue, but as a human one. He pushed back against harsh policies like mass deportations, family separations, and border crackdowns, and instead called on world leaders to treat immigrants with compassion, understanding, and basic respect. His words still carry weight, especially in times like these.
A Voice of Compassion on Immigration
As immigration lawyers in Connecticut, we’ve helped families from across the globe who have experienced many of the same challenges Pope Francis spoke about: fleeing violence, escaping poverty, or simply seeking a safer future for their children. His voice mattered because he didn’t speak in political terms—he spoke as a pastor who believed in the dignity of every person.
During his time as Pope, Francis made it a point to speak up for immigrants. He encouraged world leaders to focus on bringing people together instead of creating division. One message he returned to often was the story of the Holy Family—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—who had to flee their home to escape danger. He reminded us that they, too, were migrants looking for safety. For him, that story showed how every immigrant and refugee deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, no matter their legal status or where they come from.
His Message to the United States on Deportation
In one of his most impactful letters, Pope Francis addressed the situation in the United States following the return of mass deportation efforts. He wrote:
“The family of Nazareth in exile, Jesus, Mary and Joseph, emigrants in Egypt and refugees there to escape the wrath of an ungodly king, are the model… of all refugees of every condition who, beset by persecution or necessity, are forced to leave their homeland.”
He went on to say that deporting people—many of whom leave their countries because of poverty, violence, or disasters—damages their dignity and leaves entire families vulnerable. He also made it clear that it is unjust to treat undocumented status as a sign of criminality. He recognized that while countries have a right to maintain safety, they also have a duty to protect the rights and humanity of those seeking help.
This message echoed what many immigrant advocates and attorneys, including our firm, have long said: that immigration policy must be fair, humane, and reflect our shared values—not fear or politics.
An Advocate for Human Rights
Pope Francis didn’t have to name specific leaders to make his views known. He was always clear about where he stood on immigration. He spoke out against family separation at the border, treating asylum seekers like criminals, and the idea that people coming for economic reasons deserve less compassion. Whether in his speeches, letters, or public remarks, his message was simple: helping those in need isn’t a political choice—it’s the right thing to do.
And his concern wasn’t limited to the U.S. He spoke up for immigrants and refugees everywhere—in Europe, Africa, Latin America, and beyond. No matter where people were from, he urged the world to listen to those who had been pushed aside, not just those in power.
What His Legacy Means to Our Clients and Communities
At The Law Offices of James A. Welcome, we often represent clients who face situations that Pope Francis described so clearly—families fleeing extreme poverty, women escaping domestic violence, or children brought to the U.S. with no choice of their own. These people are not just “cases” to us. They are people with stories, fears, hopes, and loved ones. That’s why his leadership meant so much to our community and our work.
His words gave comfort and validation to immigrants who felt unwanted or dismissed. He reminded them—and the world—that their lives mattered. He gave many people the courage to come forward, ask for help, and believe that justice was still possible.
Carrying His Mission Forward
While Pope Francis is no longer with us, his message lives on. It is a message that immigration lawyers like us must continue to honor through our work: advocating for fairness, protecting due process, and standing with those who feel voiceless.
Our team at The Law Offices of James A. Welcome is proud to support the very people Pope Francis spoke about. Whether it’s helping someone apply for asylum, defending against deportation, filing for a family-based visa, or preparing a green card application, we approach each case with the understanding that it affects real lives.
We Are Here for You and Your Family
The immigration journey is never easy. But you don’t have to face it alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with an immigration issue—whether it’s a pending deportation, the need for legal status, or fears about immigration enforcement—we are here to help.
We’ve represented clients across Connecticut for over 20 years and understand the stress and uncertainty that come with immigration issues. But we also know how to build strong cases, fight unfair policies, and give families the support they need to move forward.
We speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and we serve communities in Waterbury, Danbury, Hartford, Bridgeport, and Norwalk.
To learn more about your immigration options or to schedule a confidential consultation, call The Law Offices of James A. Welcome at (203) 753-7300 or visit us online at www.welcomelawfirm.com.