Keep Families Together

Today marks World Refugee Day, but our country has not lived up to the ideals of providing support and shelter to those fleeing to the United States seeking a better life. We have been horrified by the images, stories, and sounds coming from our nation’s border, as thousands of children have been ripped away from their mothers and fathers. The Trump administration’s “zero-tolerance” immigration policy is cruel, inhumane, and goes against everything our country should stand for. Instead of providing compassion and hope, the administration is stoking fear and anguish, inducing more trauma in families who are trying to escape violence and persecution.

Not only has the administration refused to accept responsibility and acknowledge the consequences of its actions, some officials have even tried to quote scripture as reason for their actions. Both Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders have cited the bible as justifying the enforcement of the law. Beyond the fact that there is no law forcing the separation of children from their parents, I find it absolutely repugnant that faith is being used as moral justification.

Faith plays an important role in my life. Growing up, my faith helped inform my values, as it has for millions of other Americans. My faith has taught me the importance of treating everyone equally and with respect. There are no conditions nor exceptions, just the importance of the Golden Rule, treating others the way that I would want them to treat me. Now, we see the Trump administration tearing children away from their parents and putting them in cages, reasoning that these families deserve this treatment because they are not from America.

It shouldn’t matter that these are people from a different country. No child should ever be forcibly taken from their parent. My faith has helped me realize that when people are hurting, it is our responsibility to help in any way that we can. I can’t imagine a world where my twin boys were taken from me, and I doubt any parent feels differently. Taking children from their families does not align with my values, our community’s values, and our country’s values, and this policy must end.

It’s been heartening to see faith leaders and groups speak out against what’s happening at the border. They have rightfully condemned Attorney General Sessions and the administration for their “zero-tolerance” policy. They have reaffirmed our commitment to the dignity and welfare of all people, including immigrants, and have called for the immediate end of the separation of children and families. I add my voice to their calls.

The Trump administration’s policy does nothing to strengthen our border security, nor does it address any of the issues affecting our immigration system. But most of all, it is morally wrong. Our country has always stood as a beacon of hope, especially for those who are fleeing persecution and violence. There are more than 21 million refugees around the world and 10 million are stateless. Yet our country is now turning them away and adding to their pain and suffering. We need to keep families together, and as a father and as an American, I demand that the President immediately rescind his heartless policy.

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