FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Thursday, November 17, 2022 

Media Contact: Anabel Mendoza | amendoza@theyoungcenter.org 

Washington D.C.— This year’s midterm elections showcased millions of voters’ unwavering commitment to defending, protecting, and welcoming immigrant children and their families. Black, brown, and immigrant communities showed up in record numbers to reject hateful, anti-immigrant campaigns and fight for the rights of all communities, including immigrant children and youth. 

Congress must respond in turn, and deliver legislation that welcomes immigrant children, families, and adults, permanently protects millions of people waiting in immigration limbo, keeps families together, and restores access to asylum for thousands of people. 

Jennifer Nagda, Policy Director at the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights, said: 

“For two years, immigrant children and their families have waited for Congress to enact legislation that would prevent family separation, restore access to asylum, and provide fair processes at the border and in immigration court. Right now, the stakes could not be higher: Congress must pass child- and youth-centered legislation immediately or bear responsibility for the family separation and deportations that will follow later.  

The current lame-duck session offers a critical window of opportunity for members of Congress to act with the urgency this moment requires. Congress must unite against xenophobic, anti-immigrant bills and deliver legislation that protects immigrant children, youth, and their communities. That includes delivering a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients, passing child-centered legislation such as the Children’s Safe Welcome Act, and funding holistic services to support children separated from their parents.” 

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The Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights is a non-profit organization that protects and advances the rights and best interests of immigrant children and advocates for an immigration system that treats children as children first. For press inquiries, please contact Anabel Mendoza at amendoza@theyoungcenter.org