NYIC Applauds Senators Schumer + Gillibrand's Keep Families Together Act

The New York Immigration Coalition applauds the introduction of the Keep Families Together Act, introduced by Senator Dianne Feinstein and co-sponsored by New York Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand. If passed, the Act would prevent the the Department of Homeland Security from separating children from their parents when they arrive at the US Border, a tactic that has become standard under the Trump administration in recent weeks. Hundreds of families have been torn apart in this manner since May.

The announcement of the new policy by Attorney General Jeff Sessions on May 7th was the latest, and to date cruelest, step this Administration has taken in its ongoing targeting of migrants fleeing violence and coming to the United States seeking protection. It has caused outrage across the country and prompted the United Nations to issue a rebuke of the United States human rights practices. As one of the top receiving states for Central American migrant children and families, New York communities have been particularly impacted by these recent developments.

Steven Choi, Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition, issued the following statement:

"Tearing young children from their parents' trembling arms isn't #MAGA it's morally bankrupt. Americans from across the political spectrum are outraged and thankfully New York Senators Schumer and Gillibrand have moved to keep families together. We urge Congress to follow suit and show some common decency and mercy even if the President won't."