Refugee Congress Condemns Reported Abuse of Migrant Children at the Southern Border in Texas
For immediate release: July 24, 2023
WASHINGTON – Refugee Congress is deeply appalled by recent reports that Texas State Troopers have been ordered to push migrants - including children and babies - back into the Rio Grande, placing them in grave danger of drowning, and on the heels of Governor Abbott’s increased deployment of buoys and razor wire fencing to keep out migrants and asylum seekers. These types of tactics are reprehensible and come from a place of hate and prejudice that must never be tolerated.
"Texas Governor Greg Abbott's recent actions are another predictable example of him using humans as pawns in political ploys. We will not be motivated by hate, fear, or xenophobia. We will not be swayed by petty politicians who are playing games with human lives. We should be a nation of welcome and humanity. Instead of using fear mongering tactics, a humanitarian reform of the immigration system is needed," Nga Vương-Sandoval, Honorary Delegate for Colorado.
"As the Refugee Congress delegate for the state of Hawaii, I stand firmly against any form of violence, mistreatment, or neglect of migrant children seeking refuge in the United States. The recent reports of border security officers being instructed to push small migrant children back into the Rio Grande are deeply disturbing and go against the principles of compassion, humanity, and respect for human rights. We vehemently reject such instructions and call for a thorough investigation to ensure justice and protection for all vulnerable populations. It is essential that we foster a welcoming and safe environment for those seeking asylum, upholding the values of inclusivity and empathy. Together, let us strive for a world where every individual, regardless of their nationality or background, is treated with dignity and compassion," Valdir Solera Junior, Honorary Delegate for Hawaii.
“The recent report stating that the Governor of Texas ordered the National Guard to push children towards the Rio Grande River is deeply disturbing and utterly inhumane. As a society, we should never condone actions that jeopardize the lives of vulnerable children fleeing for safety and protection. Such heartless orders are unacceptable and call for immediate condemnation. We must stand together, demanding accountability and justice for these potential young refugees. Let us work tirelessly to create a compassionate and just world where every child’s life is valued, and where those seeking safety are treated with dignity and respect,” Dauda Sesay, Vice Chair, Board of Directors.
“As a child refugee who experienced the harsh conditions of the sea. I find these allegations heartbreaking, disturbing, and unconstitutional in spirit. Encouraging any actions that will lead to the death of the innocent is cruel and unusual punishment. Seeking refuge should not cost someone's life. America stands for Liberty and Justice for All. Americans at our core will always do what's right. Protecting our children is always the right thing to do. It takes a village to raise a child, we are the village. KIDS ARE IN DANGER OF DYING and we need to sound the alarms,” said Jessi Calzado-Esponda, Delegate for the District of Columbia.
Refugee Congress calls upon the Biden Administration to act decisively to push back on the Governor’s inhumane maneuvers.
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Refugee Congress is a nonpartisan advocacy organization built and led by refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced people to promote the well-being, integration and dignity of all vulnerable migrants. With delegates across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, we use our voices and experiences to inform and influence decision-makers on critical domestic and international issues that affect our communities.
MEDIA CONTACT: (202) 905-6238, media@refugeecongress.org
