Monica Alcota (left) and Cristina Ortega. Photo courtesy of the New York Post.

Monica Alcota, the lesbian spouse of New York City social worker Cristina Ortega, will not be deported to Argentina, according to this article in the New York Post.

The ruling from federal immigration Judge Terry A. Bain is significant because it could help thousands of other undocumented immigrants who are partners in same-sex relationships avoid deportations, the article said.

“We hugged each other and had a celebration. We drank a toast with some cider and called our friends,” Ortega said.

The National Association of Social Workers is committed to fair treatment for all, including LGBT individuals and immigrants. To learn more visit NASW’s Diversity and Equity Webpage by clicking here.