June 28, 2019

This week we saw the horrific scene at our nation's border. It is hard to believe that our country has detained children escaping violence and abuse and allowed them to languish in squalor and unsanitary conditions. There is a lack of clean diapers and clothes for the hundreds of children in U.S. custody. Children are taking care of children.

Psychologists say these children will suffer from increased rates of anxiety, depression and PTSD, as well as heightened risks of suicide and self-harm in the future. 

The House and Senate each passed their own $4.6m immigration bill this week. Both bills contained humanitarian aid. However, the Senate bill gave some funds to the Pentagon for border control and did not set standards for care at the detention centers. 

The House bill was structured to prevent the misappropriation of funds by ICE. Democrats wanted to ensure that the funds would be used towards improving conditions at detention facilities and extending aid and legal services to migrants.

Generally the chambers meet to work out the differences. This process can be slow. With Senate Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) unwilling to compromise and the GOP-controlled-Senate following suit, aid for the children would have been further delayed. 

Therefore, for the sake of expediency, the House ultimately passed the bill. The outcome of the immigration bill would have been different with a Democratic Senate. Elections have consequences. Donate and help JAC turn the Senate blue. 

"As we pass the Senate bill, we will do so with a Battle Cry as to how we go forward to protect children in a way that truly honors their dignity and worth," Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said.

We know firsthand what happens when people fleeing persecution are turned away. Our democratic and Jewish values demand the we do more. Click here for a way to help asylum seekers.