The images of migrant children confined in cages, sitting on cold concrete floors wrapped in nothing more than aluminum foil blankets, are stark reminders of the current immigration crisis. Consider the heartbreaking reality of nursing infants being forcibly taken from their mothers. The zero-tolerance policy enforced at the border has led to the separation of children from their parents, regardless of whether they are seeking asylum, with both parties placed in different detention centers. Parents may find themselves facing exorbitant fees—up to $800 for DNA tests to prove their relationship with their own children—funds that many undocumented immigrants simply do not have.
Currently, there are approximately 3,000 minors detained in the United States, ranging from ages 6 to 18. In response, the government has begun constructing tent cities on military bases to accommodate families crossing the border, but these unairconditioned shelters are located in Texas, where temperatures can reach dangerous highs. Imagine being in such a situation; it’s inconceivable.
One cannot help but question the government’s ability to swiftly reunite these families. Barack Obama recently voiced his concerns about this crisis, asking whether we are a nation that accepts the cruelty of tearing children from their parents or one that values family unity. The fundamental question arises: do we see ourselves and our families in the plight of these migrants? When we hear the cries of these separated children, do we recognize them as akin to our own?
If we choose to turn a blind eye, we risk fostering a divisive mentality that categorizes these migrants as “others.” This leads to harmful stereotypes, viewing them as invaders with inferior cultures. We might casually dismiss their struggles while enjoying a meal that culturally appropriates their heritage.
The reality is, this isn’t the America we strive to embody. It echoes the dark chapters of our history, such as the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII or the forced assimilation of Native American children. The majority of these migrant children have indigenous roots, making this situation even more poignant.
We have a choice between two visions of America. One aligns with the welcoming words inscribed on the Statue of Liberty—inviting the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses yearning for freedom. The other reflects the xenophobic ideologies of groups like the Know-Nothing Party and the KKK, who cling to a distorted view of a “pure” American culture that excludes those who do not fit their narrow definition.
While it’s not feasible to simply open our borders, we can extend asylum to those fleeing gang violence and domestic abuse, despite recent policy reversals. We can introduce domestic worker programs to fill labor shortages in agriculture, where immigration crackdowns have caused crops to rot. We must stop criminalizing those who seek a better life for their families.
As poet Waran Shire articulates in “Home,” people only leave home when it becomes a place of danger.
We often hesitate to make this statement, but it’s imperative: if you are not supporting the humane treatment of these families, you are actively opposing it. If you cannot empathize with a child in a cage, you should reflect on your humanity. If you cannot imagine your own child being taken from you, it’s time to examine your conscience.
If you feel indifferent to statements like, “The government requires families to pay extortionate fees for reunification,” you must question what kind of society you support with your tax dollars. Would you rather fund family reunification efforts or waste resources on military buildup?
You have a choice: to care for migrant children or to remain in your self-centered bubble. You can proclaim to be pro-life or merely pro-birth. You can choose to love your neighbor or only care for yourself. You can choose to illuminate the path for others or hide your light away.
Fortunately, public outcry has led to claims from the current administration that it will cease the separation of families, though this promise lacks substance and many issues remain unresolved. Families are still facing the trauma of separation, with parents being reunited with children who are often traumatized or in poor health. This is unacceptable.
You can join us in the fight for justice or stand against it. As poet Elisa Chavez reminds us, those who promote hate will ultimately not prevail. We must remember that what makes America great is our compassion and unity.
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In summary, our response to the immigration crisis not only reflects our values as individuals but also shapes the future of our nation. We have the power to choose empathy over apathy, humanity over division.
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