Since October 2017, over 700 children have been separated from their parents and rendered “unaccompanied,” including over 100 children under the age of four. On May 4, 2018, DHS stated that it will refer all individuals who cross the border without authorization for criminal prosecution, including adult members of family units. This policy will undoubtedly lead to a drastic increase in incidences of family separation.

As people of faith we are called to stand with our immigrant brothers and sisters, to stand for families, to stand for the inherent dignity of all people. Join us in taking action!

Children are vulnerable and should not be separated from their parents. The family is a foundational element of Catholic teaching and family unity is a cornerstone of our American immigration system.

Separating parents from their children will not deter families from seeking safety and security in the U.S. Such a policy will not cure the pervasive root causes of migration existing in the violent areas of Central America. Furthermore, a policy of separating families at the border will be extremely costly to the U.S. taxpayer, costing hundreds of dollars/night per family.

As a person of faith, I join the Ignatian Solidarity Network and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in urging you to recognize the importance of family unity and use your oversight capabilities to:

– Tell the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Not to Separate Families
– Prevent DHS from Receiving Funding for This Harmful and Costly Practice
– Propose More Humane Solutions, Such As Alternatives to Detention