As you may have heard, President Trump issued an Executive Order today ending the Administration’s “Zero Tolerance” policy at the southern U.S. border, which separated children from their parents. While this appears to be a victory for all of us who have spoken out against this policy, there remains much confusion as to the impact on families awaiting processing or what the process will be for reuniting children currently in the system with their parents. Additionally, there are several competing bills currently working their way through Congress that could have serious and lasting implications for immigrants and those seeking asylum in the U.S.
We encourage you to continue to speak out on behalf of the impacted families and contact your elected officials. As a Network that works each day to support and strengthen families, we know the lasting trauma that can be the result of family separation. The Network’s Statement can serve as a reference for your outreach to elected officials and the media.
Additionally, we have created an advocacy toolkit for your use in your own communities. This Google Document contains national and local resources mobilization efforts, such as: protest marches; front-line organizations that are accepting donations; social media content; and volunteer opportunities. This document is fluid and will be updated as new information is received. This link will also allow your agency to add your own programs to the list. While this toolkit is intended for agency staff use, please feel free to copy and paste any relevant information for distribution in your communities.
We will continue to keep you informed as the situation evolves and thank you for your partnership in these critical efforts. Please contact Mindy Brodsky with any questions or if you would like to become more involved.
Mindy Brodsky
Washington Representative, Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies
Reuben D. Rotman
President & CEO, Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies
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