News & Media
Estrella del Paso is often at the forefront of media coverage related to immigration issues at the U.S.-Mexico border. We aim to provide a realistic portrayal of the reality along the southern border while also uplifting the immigrant experience. Below you can view recent media coverage.
Media inquiries should be directed to Sandra Ramirez, Director of Communications.
Amor al Migrante Podcast
Episode 9: H-1B Visa: Opportunities, Benefits, and Elon Musk’s Surprising Support
January 10, 2025
What is the H-1B visa, and why does it matter so much to the U.S.? In this episode, Estrella del Paso Legal Director, Imelda Maynard, explains the benefits of the H-1B visa, its role in driving innovation and economic growth, and why Elon Musk’s unexpected endorsement has sparked headlines.
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 8 (En Español): Que Esperar En Su Primera Visita Y Preguntas Frequentes
January 3, 2025
On this episode of Amor al Migrante, we delve into frequently asked questions and what to expect on your first visit to our offices. 🛂✨
Have questions about your first visit to our offices? Mary answers the most common questions we receive and explains everything you need to know about your first visit and how we can help you on your journey.
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 7: The Power of "Thank You" & Unlocking a Positive Mindset
November 27, 2024
On this episode of Amor al Migrante, we’re talking about positivity and gratitude!
Monica Allen, a Social Worker in our Unaccompanied Minors Unit, and Brenda Thomas, an Attorney in the same unit, share valuable tips and insights on the power of gratitude and the impact of staying positive.
Don’t forget our challenge: call, text, or write a letter to someone this season to show your appreciation!
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 6: Thanksgiving Across Borders & Pilgrims Were Refugees
November 25, 2024
On this episode of Amor al Migrante, we are talking about Thanksgiving traditions. Gail Fitzpatrick, a lawyer in the Estrella del Paso Crime Victims’ Unit, shares her Thanksgiving experiences living in Puerto Rico, Korea, and Germany.
And we talk about the pilgrims as refugees who were fleeing religious persecution.
Also, don’t forget to THANK the farmworkers for much of the food on your plate this holiday season.
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 5: The Financials of Immigration
October 16, 2024
On this episode of Amor al Migrante, we are breaking down essential financial information.
From understanding credit scores, to the most common immigration application fees and available fee waivers, our expert Adriana Nevarez, Accredited Representative in the Affirmative Legal Services team shares what you need to know.
Amor al Migrante co-host Cristian Trujillo shares his knowledge from a 10-year career working in the financial field to provide tips on budgeting and saving for big purchases.
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 4: The Reality of Asylum
October 15, 2024
In this episode of Amor al Migrante, hosts Sandra Ramirez and Cristian Trujillo are joined by Hannah Rule, Estrella del Paso Managing Attorney, and Jackie Ramos, Legal Orientation Specialist. Join the conversation as they explain how the asylum process works, some of the biggest misconceptions about asylum, and share positive outcomes of asylum cases!
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 3 (En Español): Pequeñas Acciones, Un Gran Cambio
October 14, 2024
On this episode of Amor Al Migrante, we were joined by the amazing fronteriza @jessicatarin_ who created the @viajerasfronterizas which brings together viajeras along our border!
Your support helps us stand strong against policies that threaten to break families apart and limit opportunities. As Jessica beautifully put it, “Small actions for big change.” 🌎✨
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 2: Representing El Paso featuring Old Sheepdog Brewery and Chuco Relic
October 11, 2024
Recorded from Old Sheepdog Brewery in Central El Paso, two local business owners share their connection to our unique border community, and El Paso’s longstanding commitment to welcoming ALL to our city. Guests: Gus Delgado, Co-Owner of Old Sheepdog Brewery (@oldsheepdogbrewery) and Chelsie Evaldi, owner of Chuco Relic (@ChucoRelic) souvenir shop.
Listen on Apple Podcasts Spotify
Episode 1: "Defending Dreams" featuring United We Dream
October 10, 2024
Juliana Macedo de Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream explains what we can expect from a hearing on October 10, 2024 in the 5th Circult Court of Appeals in New Orleans. Juliana, a DACA recipient herself, discusses what is at stake for herself and all Dreamers. You can follow and support UWD by following @UnitedWeDream on social media platforms.
Text “Home is Here” to 78757 to receive updates from United We Dream.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Recent Media Coverage
KRWG-TV: Fronteras A Changing America
December 30, 2024
KRWG TV’s Fronteras A Changing America, the program features a conversation about U.S. immigration law and border policy.
In this second of two previews, KRWG’s Jonny Coker talks with Melissa Lopez, an attorney and executive director of Estrella del Paso, an organization that provides free immigration legal services in the borderland. They also discuss how the Biden Administration and Trump Administration may differ with these policies.
El Paso Matters: El Paso hospitals are now required to ask patients if they’re U.S. citizens. Patients don’t have to answer.
November 18, 2024
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order went into effect November 1, 2024, requiring Texas hospitals to ask patients whether they are a U.S. citizen or lawfully present in the country.
Patients have the legal right to withhold information about their citizenship and immigration. While hospitals have to ask, both citizens and non-citizens have no obligation to answer the question, said Imelda Maynard, legal director for Estrella del Paso, an organization that provides free immigration legal services to migrants and refugees in West Texas and New Mexico.
Estrella del Paso Executive Director, Melissa M. Lopez, Addresses House Judiciary Committee
October 8, 2024
Our Executive Director, Melissa M. Lopez, Spoke in front of House Judiciary Committee
Univision: Estrella del Paso Executive Director, Melissa M. Lopez, on the State of Texas' Alarming Attack on Annunciation House
February 22, 2024
Our executive director shared her thoughts on the alarming attack on Annunciation House by the State of Texas.
Mural promoting unity, acceptance unveiled in Central El Paso
July 18, 2022
The mural “You Belong” by Kelsey Kilcrease is displayed on the corner of Yandell Drive and Poplar Street. It was commissioned by the Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services, Inc.
Estrella Insights Blog
Estrella Insights - June's Edition
July 1, 2024
June is a special month for the immigrant community as we celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month. 2024 marks the 10th year of this beautiful celebration started by I Am Immigrant. It’s also the anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, better known as DACA, and we celebrate World Refugee Day.
While the month began with a challenging restrictive order from the current administration to close the border after a certain limit of encounters, we remain resilient. June has been filled with cultural recognition and joy, and we also received uplifting news from the administration about new action to keep families together.
Estrella Insights - May Edition
May 1, 2024
Unlike the previous months, which were challenging regarding immigration, May arrived with a fresh perspective and good news. We started the month with our sleeves rolled up, signing a petition demanding Temporary Protected Status for Haiti. Additionally, we heard various success stories from our clients at Estrella del Paso.
Unfortunately, as the month went on, new challenges emerged. We faced a temporary injunction filed by the Texas AG against Annunciation House, and we discovered that the current administration is attempting to strengthen the Transit Ban, a policy targeting vulnerable asylum seekers.
Estrella Insights - April Edition
April 1, 2024
The month of April started with the implementation of new immigration fees took effect. While some fees decreased by up to 65%, others surged by as much as 129%, notably the form I-129 (Petition for O non-immigrant worker). Additionally, April held significant events for the migrant community as the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals met for a preliminary injunction regarding SB-4. midst these developments, April also gifted us with a natural spectacle: a solar eclipse, to be witnessed again in 20 years.
Estrella Insights - March Edition
March 1, 2024
The month of March was a rollercoaster. We began with the celebration of Women’s History Month, recognizing the tremendous impact women have in our society. We also honored all the women at Estrella del Paso who change the lives of thousands of clients every day. However, it wasn’t all celebration. President Joe Biden’s use of the term “illegal” when referring to undocumented immigrants was disappointing. Additionally, the unconstitutional SB-4 briefly went into effect before being blocked again.
Estrella Insights - February Edition
March 1, 2024
As we just concluded Black History Month, we celebrate the contributions of African Americans and their legacy. The 2024 theme was “African Americans and the Arts”, celebrating their impact on visual arts, literature, fashion and more. This month we remembered personalities like, Hattie McDaniel who was the first African American to win an Academy Award, Gordon Parks, the first fashion photographer for Vogue, and Kara Walker, who is the second youngest person to ever receive the McArthur Fellowship at age 27.
Despite these moments of celebration, we also faced challenges and demonstrated resilience after witnessing one of the darkest days in recent immigration history, as the Texas Attorney General attacked and tried to shut down a Catholic non-profit migrant shelter in El Paso, Texas.
Join us in revisiting the most important headlines from the month of February.
Estrella Insights - January Edition
February 1, 2024
As we entered 2024, we officially launched our new identity and website, Estrella del Paso. Embracing fresh colors and a revamped image, our commitment to the community remains unwavering, with our mission, vision, and values standing firm, stronger than ever.
Reflecting on the events of January, we acknowledge the challenges, opportunities, and the journey that lies ahead in 2024. In this blog, we recap the impactful moments that shaped the first month of the year.
Press Releases
Texas Bar Foundation Awards Technology Funds to Support Essential Technology Upgrades for Immigration Legal Services Provider
November 12, 2024
Estrella del Paso is pleased to announce a grant award from the Texas Bar Foundation in the amount of $10,000.
Estrella del Paso Responds to 2024 Presidential Election Results
November 6, 2024
The election results are in, and we now must prepare for the onslaught that our clients and community will face in the next four years.
Estrella del Paso Executive Director to Testify before House Judiciary Committee on the Topic of Immigration
September 9, 2024
Estrella del Paso Executive Director & Attorney Melissa M. Lopez will testify before the House Judiciary Committee on the topic of immigration and the border.
Estrella del Paso Calls on New Mexico State Senator to Correct Inaccurate and Damaging Remarks About Detaining Migrants
February 13, 2024
Estrella del Paso, formerly Diocesan Migrant & Refugee Services (DMRS), is calling on State Senator Joe Cervantes (D-NM) to publicly correct inaccurate and troubling remarks he made during a Floor Session of the New Mexico Senate.
You Belong: Central El Paso Mural Celebrates Unity Between El Paso & Juarez
July 22, 2023
There is a new mural in Central El Paso and it’s shining light on the beautiful relationship El Paso has with our sister city, Juarez.
