A Ukrainian family built a community in Cleveland. Now, they face deportation
After the US said seeking affordable medical care for their son would not impede their re-entry, Tamila Vashchuk and her 10-year-old were issued removal orders
TL;DR
- Tamila and Mykola Vashchuk, a Ukrainian couple, have become known in Ohio for their pierogi business and community involvement.
- They face potential deportation after Tamila and their son, who needed affordable medical care, briefly returned to Ukraine and were issued removal orders upon re-entry to the US.
- The family was allegedly told they could re-enter the US without issue, but were instead accused of violating parole terms.
- Deportation could jeopardize their son's health, as his daily medication requires refrigeration, which is difficult to ensure in war-affected Ukraine.
- Cleveland's immigration court has a high rate of asylum denial, and the judge assigned to their case has one of the highest denial rates nationally.
- The 'Uniting for Ukraine' program, under which they entered the US, generally prevents deportation, but immigration judges have discretionary authority.
- The situation highlights broader challenges faced by Ukrainians in the US, including the impending end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for many.
- Human rights groups and community leaders are calling for extended immigration resources and a pathway to permanent residency for Ukrainians.
- The family's business and personal lives are in limbo due to the looming threat of deportation.