Yesterday the Supreme Court of the United States declined to hear the case of a German family seeking asylum in the United States because of persecution they endured in Germany because of their homeschooling. The Romeike family left Germany after facing fines and possible jail due to their desire to homeschool their children.
HSLDA has a video that provides a good recap of their story:
Below is the response from Home School Legal Defense Association Chair Michael Farris that was emailed to supporters.
Today, the United States Supreme Court declined to review Uwe and Hannelore Romeike’s asylum case. We knew it was an uphill battle since the Court only accepts 80–100 out of nearly 10,000 requests each year. While we are disappointed, the court’s decision in no way changes our commitment to fight for the Romeikes and homeschooling freedom. The court’s decision is not a decision on the merits of the case—however, it was the last judicial hope for the family.
But we will not give up and see this family returned to Germany where they will face certain persecution. Even now, we have been working with supportive members of Congress to introduce legislation that could help the Romeikes and others who flee persecution. We will keep you informed as the legislation progresses. We will undoubtedly need your help at the right time. Although our judicial efforts on behalf of this courageous family are over for now, we are resolved to fight on for them and homeschooling freedom.
We are deeply grateful for the support and prayers of our members, friends, and allies over the course of this case and especially this past week. Please continue to pray as we review all possible options for the Romeikes.
We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.
Update: AWESOME NEWS from HSLDA!
Today, a Supervisor with the Department of Homeland Security called a member of our legal team to inform us that the Romeike family has been granted “indefinite deferred status”. This means that the Romeikes can stay in the United States permanently (unless they are convicted of a crime, etc.)
This is an incredible victory that can only be credited to our Almighty God.
We also want to thank those of who spoke up on this issue–including that long ago White House petition. We believe that the public outcry made this possible while God delivered the victory.
This is an amazing turnaround in 24 hours. Praise the Lord.
Proverbs 21: 1 “The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord, He guides it wherever He pleases.”
