Homeland Security makes cuts to offices overseeing civil rights protections

March 22, 2025 Story by: Editor

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is downsizing three key offices responsible for civil rights protections, arguing that their functions have hindered immigration enforcement efforts.

DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin confirmed in a statement on Friday that the department is implementing a “reduction in force” affecting the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman, and the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman.

This move aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader policy objective of shrinking the federal government.

Federal agencies were instructed to submit plans by March 13 detailing not only job reductions but also the elimination of certain positions and the consolidation of programs. The New York Times first reported these developments.

McLaughlin stated that while DHS remains “committed to civil rights protections,” these offices have created obstacles for immigration enforcement.

“These offices have obstructed immigration enforcement by adding bureaucratic hurdles and undermining DHS’s mission. Rather than supporting law enforcement efforts, they often function as internal adversaries that slow down operations,” she said.

The Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties was established under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to safeguard civil liberties within the department, which was formed following the Sept. 11 attacks. It processes hundreds of complaints annually and recommends policy changes when necessary.

The Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman operates independently within DHS, separate from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Its role is to ensure that conditions in immigration detention facilities remain safe and humane.

Similarly, the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman functions independently within DHS and assists individuals and businesses in resolving issues related to immigration benefits.

Democrats criticized the decision, arguing that it would reduce transparency.

“With Trump’s mass firing of the entire DHS Civil Rights and Civil Liberties workforce, he is ensuring in advance that there will be no transparency or oversight of his extreme agenda,” said Rep. Bennie G. Thompson of Mississippi, the ranking Democrat on the House Committee on Homeland Security.

A staff member from the Civil Rights and Civil Liberties office, who requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation, emphasized that the office’s responsibilities extend beyond immigration and border security. The office also investigates allegations involving other DHS divisions, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Source: AP News