September 05, 2018

Separated migrant children still need your help!

tags:	#detained immigrants, #human rights, #migrant rights, #family reunification, #USA, #migration
located:	USA
by:	Yair Oded

The court imposed deadline to reunite migrant children and parents separated by the U.S. government’s zero tolerance policy had passed over a month ago. Yet, more than 500 migrant children remain in government-contracted shelters with no prospect of seeing their parents in the foreseeable future (either because the latter have yet to be located, failed to pass background checks, or were already deported).

Even those who already were reunited with their parents are often held in detention facilities under harsh conditions, and have to cope with the anxiety surrounding their parents’ looming deportation. Parents facing immediate deportation are torn between taking their children with them or leaving them behind to try and fight for their chance for a future in the United States.

It is crucial that the public and media remain attuned to the devastating plight of separated migrant families, and pressure the authorities to drastically improve the treatment they’re afforded, ensure their ability to properly lodge asylum claims, and reunite children with their parents.

In the meantime, there are several ways in which you can help.

The Young Center for Migrant Children Rights  is an organization advocating on behalf of migrant children, including those who are currently separated from their parents. Visit their website to learn more details about the reality and conditions of separated migrant children. They also offer numerous volunteer opportunities (including organized visits to meet with detained migrant children and opportunities for attorneys to volunteer their services), information on how to contact one’s local representatives and pressure them to take action, as well as an option to donate.

The Texas Civil Rights Project is an organization that works tirelessly to reunite migrant families and provide them with proper legal representation as they face the lengthy and intricate immigration proceedings. Visit their website to learn about volunteer opportunities they offer or make a donation if volunteering is not a viable option for you.