Statement on President Trump's Executive Actions on Immigration

Washington D. C. - Today, President Trump announced executive orders that are intended to follow through on campaign promises to build a wall and deport millions. Trump is calling for increased detention, increased prosecutions of immigrants, and stripping grants from cities and states that adopt welcoming policies. The following is a statement from Beth Werlin, Executive Director of the American Immigration Council.

“These policies are a flagrant attack on immigrants and our values as Americans.  Our laws dictate that everyone receives a just and fair process, whether they have been in this country for decades or are arriving today in search of safety and protection. We will not tolerate Trump’s ill-conceived policies that sideline due process. We will continue to defend the rights of immigrants and are prepared to challenge unlawful and abusive tactics in the courts. We will shine a light on the misuse of power and hold the government accountable.

“Our nation needs a practical and efficient immigration policy that honors immigrants’ contributions, fuels our economy, protects families, and benefits all Americans.  The President’s call to invest in immigrant detention, aggressive deportation strategies, and an unnecessary, expensive border wall is not practical, efficient, nor consistent with our values.  It sends a signal that America is closed for business and that our doors are shut to those in need.  We at the American Immigration Council believe in an America that honors our diversity and ingenuity and celebrates the fact that we are, and always will be, a nation of immigrants.  We will carry on the fight for this America.” 

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