STATEMENT – LIRS Troubled by Administration’s Proposed Immigration Framework that Seeks to Exchange the DREAMers’ Path to Citizenship for Immigration Policies that will Separate Families
For Immediate Release:
January 26, 2018
MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Bernard
dbernard@lirs.org; 410-230-2888
WASHINGTON, DC – Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) is deeply troubled by the Administration’s most recent immigration framework, which attempts to codify a family separation policy and roll back key protections for children fleeing violence in exchange for providing a pathway to citizenship for DREAMers.
DREAMers and the children who have come to our borders seeking refuge do not need more talking points or political maneuvering. They need the certainty and security that comes from a legislative solution.
Still, the President has stated his desire to provide a solution for DREAMers, and LIRS has been heartened by the efforts of representatives on both sides of the aisle who are committed to building a future for these young people.
“With so much common ground, we can’t afford to get lost in political machinations,” said Linda Hartke, President and CEO of LIRS. “Basic human compassion and our nation’s own self-interest should steer us to a legislative solution for DREAMers that leaves no child behind and keeps families together. It is that simple. Anything else would contradict our American values and the teachings of our faith.”
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Founded in 1939, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is one of the largest refugee resettlement agencies in the United States. It is nationally recognized for its leadership advocating with refugees, asylum seekers, unaccompanied children, immigrants in detention, families fractured by migration and other vulnerable populations. Through more than 75 years of service and advocacy, LIRS has helped over 500,000 migrants and refugees rebuild their lives in America.