CIRA expands English Language Classes to meet growing community need
These classes create a space for people to learn, practice, and grow together. In the CIRA classroom, language learning isn’t just about grammar; it’s about developing confidence in a new country, finding connections, and forming a community.
One Year Later: The Lasting Impact of the Glenn Valley ICE Raid and CIRA’s Social Work Response
One year ago, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a large-scale work raid at the Glenn Valley Foods plant. They detained dozens of workers, leaving their families in the dark as to what happened to their loved ones. Community leaders and organizations did their best to answer questions and provide immediate support in the chaotic aftermath.
One Year Later: The Lasting Impact of the Glenn Valley ICE Raid and CIRA’s Community Engagement Response
While CIRA’s Community Engagement Team had been preparing for the possibility of ICE raids since long before June 10, the Glenn Valley raid introduced unforeseen challenges and lessons that eventually helped strengthen the collaborative response and readiness.
One Year Later: The Lasting Impact of the Glenn Valley ICE Raid and CIRA’s Legal Response
One year ago, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a large-scale work raid at the Glenn Valley Foods plant. They arrested dozens of workers, shocking their families, community leaders, and organizations throughout the state.
The Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (CIRA) was one organization on the frontlines.
Graduates complete Omaha leadership initiative for immigrant and refugee changemakers
The first cohort of an immigrant and refugee leadership workshop in Omaha has graduated from the program with an expanded knowledge of leadership, civic engagement, and a wide network of cross-cultural community connections.
Honored for Impact: Legal Director Roxana Cortes-Mills reflects on immigrant advocacy and community support
CIRA Legal Director Roxana Cortes-Mills was recently recognized with a community impact award at Metropolitan Community College’s 26th annual Cinco de Mayo luncheon in Omaha.
CIRA bridges gap after Immigration Clinic closure
The Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (CIRA) is launching a new externship program designed to provide hands-on experience in immigration law for future immigration attorneys in the state while also helping meet a growing community need for quality legal services.
Inside Refugee Support: A Q&A with a Case Manager on the Front Lines
Adem Haroon Abdella devotes his time and energy toward helping new Americans find their center. He was born in Darfur, Sudan and began his journey of service and leadership in an Ethiopian refugee camp.
Here’s what the Board of Immigration Appeals decision means for DACA
On April 24, 2026, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) weakened protections for DACA recipients who are in removal proceedings. In doing so, the BIA instructed immigration judges to not terminate deportation proceedings against DACA recipients solely for having DACA.
Training equips advocates with Mental Health First Aid skills
Just like physical first aid, MHFA focuses on early intervention. But instead of applying bandages, mental health first aid offers strategies to build skills in non-judgmental listening, becoming a source of reassurance, and identifying when to point others toward professional help.