Experts Address Immigration Questions During World Refugee Day Webinar

In observance of World Refugee Day, the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia hosted a bilingual online panel discussion on June 24, bringing together immigration attorneys, refugee support professionals, and community leaders to provide practical guidance and support for Ukrainians navigating life in the United States.

Moderated by Marta N. Rubel, Director of Social Outreach for the Archeparchy, the webinar attracted approximately 40 participants from across the United States. The event addressed current immigration challenges facing Ukrainian families and offered an opportunity for attendees to ask questions directly to experienced professionals working in the field.

The panel featured distinguished speakers including Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia Iryna Mazur, Esq. and founding partner of Mazur Law Firm, PC; Anne L. Smith, Esq., Executive Director and Regulatory Counsel for the Ukraine Immigration Task Force; Virginia Stateva, Esq., founder of Comprehensive Immigration Services, PLLC and former USCIS official; Gina Pastore, Director of Operations for Comprehensive Immigration Services and former USCIS Field Office Director; and Romana Gordynsky, Service Coordinator for Keystone First and longtime advocate for immigrants and refugees. Translation services were provided by Iryna Kochanevych, HR Manager at Nationalities Service Center.

During the discussion, speakers provided updates on current immigration policies affecting Ukrainians, including humanitarian programs, work authorization, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and pathways to long-term legal status in the United States. Panelists also addressed common concerns related to immigration processing delays, family reunification, employment opportunities, and access to community resources.

The webinar highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian families displaced by war while emphasizing the importance of accurate information, legal guidance, and community support. Speakers encouraged participants to remain informed about policy developments and to seek assistance from qualified immigration professionals when needed.

"Organizing and hosting this event was critical. It was imperative to provide reliable information to those in our community who continue to face uncertain futures and provide them with an opportunity to ask questions that are pertinent to them. We are grateful to our speakers for sharing their expertise and helping participants better understand the resources and options available to them." -  said Marta Rubel. 

For more information about the Social Outreach Office of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia and future educational programs, visit the Archeparchy's website.