good news about u.s. war resisters in canada

Here's an update I received from the War Resisters Support Campaign while I've been celebrating Thanksgiving in New Jersey.

Corey Glass, now living in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, was supposed to have a hearing in Federal Court last Friday, November 21, concerning his appeal of his negative Pre-Removal Risk Assessment and Humanitarian and Compassionate applications. The hearing did not take place. Instead, the Ministry of Justice backed off, saying that Corey could file a new PRRA and a new H&C application, at no further cost.

This means Corey was going to win in Court. Rather than have that happen, the Justice Ministry just let it go, for now. Corey now earns some time to submit new applications. And now that Corey is married to a Canadian citizen, he's also being sponsored for Permanent Resident status.

Jeremy Hinzman's application for "leave to appeal" to the federal Court in the negative decisions on his PRRA and H&C application has been granted. His case will be heard on February 10, 2009.

The Hinzman family had been ordered to leave Canada by September 21, but that was delayed until the Federal Court could decide whether to hear Jeremy's appeal. Now they've agreed to do that, the Hinzmans can stay in Canada at least until that appeal is decided. If the appeal is successful, the Hinzmans can submit a new H&C and a new PRRA.

Once again, they gain precious time, and the possibility of a good result in Court that would help them and others, like the Hart family.

Josh Randall's spousal sponsorship has been ruled eligible for processing, which means that it will proceed normally and probably be successful - in which case, Josh will become a Permanent Resident.

Josh is one of several war resisters who have married Canadians, and who hope to obtain Permanent Resident status.

It's all adding up: we are winning! Your continued support is greatly needed, and greatly appreciated, and we keep on keepin' on.

Peace to all. See you soon!