Recent actions by ICE prompted by President Trump’s executive orders regarding immigration to the United States, have proven to be controversial, as exemplified by the incursion at the Cilantro Taqueria in Cleveland Heights at the end of January, 2025. Appropriately, Margaret W. Wong was part in a City Club of Cleveland forum titled “Unpacking Recent Executive Orders on Immigration and Refugee Resettlement”.
The forum was moderated by Dan Moulthrop, CEO of the City Club, who is also a very concerned citizen. Before engaging the panelists, Moulthrop quickly established the ambiance he desired for the gathering by inquiring how many people in attendance were foreign-born and then how many were the children or grandchildren of immigrants or refugees. By this time, quite a few people had raised their hands including Ms. Wong and Mr. Owens.
Via Moulthrop’s guidance, a spirited discussion ensued in which all participants imparted valuable information that we believe will enable listeners to better understand our current situation and make a personal choice as to how to deal with it.
Throughout the conversation, Margaret W. Wong shared her extensive knowledge and insights regarding immigration law and procedures. For a moment, she also poignantly talked about what it is like to be an immigration attorney at this time and the importance of finding the difficult balance between helping one’s client to the best of one’s ability while not becoming too emotionally, involved.
The forum was an excellent success in terms of imparting information and inspiring self-empowerment in terms of enacting social change via joining forces with others.
