Hi John, Asylum seeking children endure a long and treacherous trek to our southern border. But reaching U.S. soil doesn’t always bring relief. Their arrival signals another difficult journey through our nation’s immigration system – one that can leave kids feeling confused, alone and afraid. For these exhausted children, even small acts of compassion can be life-changing. On Christmas day, over 100 migrants boarded a bus to Brownsville, Texas, unsure of who would greet them. As the bus came to a halt, volunteers welcomed the children with stockings full of toys and warm clothes. The joy on their faces was unforgettable. A mother and daughter arrived in San Benito after a 3-week hike – all on foot. When they finally arrived at a shelter, the girl was unable to walk. Volunteers gave her immediate medical attention and for the first time in a long time, she could be a kid again. John, asylum seeking children display remarkable resilience – but the traumas they face can last a lifetime. Send a message to President Biden: there’s still so much work to be done to protect and support asylum seeking children. The Biden-Harris administration has made important strides in building a more fair, humane immigration system – but children are still suffering the effects of separation, detention, strenuous asylum processes and discriminatory policies. Our nation must make key changes that put children’s best interests first – like working to keep immigrant families together, reuniting all separated families, ensuring timely legal processes, addressing the root causes of migration and drastically reducing the use of detention. Overcrowded border camps and cold detention facilities are no place for a child – especially after a demanding journey to safety. Urge President Biden to continue the important work of reforming our nation’s immigration system to ensure a more compassionate experience for kids. |