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ImmigrationProf Blog
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For You Boxing (and Immigration) Fans (No This is Not an Entry About “Nacho Libre”)

By immigrationprof

The award-winning documentary “Split Decision” (2002) tells the compelling story of world champion boxer Jesus Chavez. As a young man, Jesus finds his rise to the world championship cut short when he is deported to Mexico for a youthful crime long in his past. Once there, he must take on the two biggest battles of his life: the fight for the right to return to his family and career in the U.S., and the struggle to find acceptance in the country of his birth. “Split Decision” is the multi-layered and suspenseful telling of Chavez’s personal story set against the a backdrop of important societal social issues that leaves the audience “to reconsider ideas about justice, redemption and a one-size-fits-all criminal justice system.” (Austin Chronicle) The Split Decision DVD features both English & Spanish language versions. It also contains bonus features including Epilogue: The Return of El Matador, in which Chavez talks about his long-awaited return to the U.S. and his new WBC superfeatherweight world champion title, as well as an interview with director Marcy Garriott.

The documentary also has a great discussion of the 1996 immigration reforms and the immigration consequences of criminal convictions.  NANCY MORAWETZ expertly lays out the issues.

BARBARA HINES represented Jesus Chavez and ultimately was able to secure him lawful permanent resiudent status.  According to the DVD’s website (click here), Hines said his case was particularly challenging and complicated because of strict immigration laws governing the cases of non-citizens with criminal records. She commented that “this positive result could not have been achieved without a concerted group effort from a large number of people whose lives have been touched by Jesus over the last six years. The INS only rarely grants the type of pardon that allowed Jesus to apply for his green card, and their decision speaks to their recognition of Jesus’ rehabilitation, accomplishments, and determination.”

KJ