What can we do?

1. Share Letter Signed by NAEYC (and 540 other organizations)
   
2. Attend a Rally
   
3. Sign ACLU Petition
4. Send Your Own Letter: Beth Blue Swadener and Mimi Bloch have drafted a sample letter that can be adapted for telephone or emails to US Senators—also you can, of course, create your own! See below.

Dear Senator ______,

As an early childhood expert who is concerned with child and family well being, I am deeply troubled at the inhumane treatment of immigrant children and families at the US border. As recent UN action has indicated, there are serious violations of human and children’s rights occurring as children are forcibly separated from their families who are being jailed or detained under new Homeland Security Policies.

As asylum seekers, adults and children are already escaping trauma and severe danger. To have parents and children forcibly separated only worsens their trauma. At the moment of separation, damage is already done. In addition, parents or guardians often do not know where their children are being taken or if they will see them again. Children as young as infants and toddlers are being held in government custody, typically without siblings, legal representation, or others who might understand their language.

The conditions of over 11,000 children are in question. Many are reported to be in cages, military bases as well as in foster homes many miles from families. Children in detention have no access to the care of extended family, schooling outside of their detention site, and, most importantly, advocates (legal or otherwise) to protect and safeguard their rights and wellbeing. There are documented cases of sexual and physical abuse of those in detention, and reports of over-crowded conditions, compounding the trauma brought on by the new policies.

I urge you to co-sponsor and actively support the Senate’s “Keep Families Together Act” immediately. Please also sign on to the letter calling for the cessation of funds for separation of immigrant children from families, already signed by over 100 legislators. Time is of the essence for the children and families involved.

I also urge you to visit detention sites and call for Senate Hearings about the impact on children of these recently policy changes. Please let me know the actions that you and your staff are taking on this urgent matter.

Thank you and sincerely,

Name, Title and Professional Affiliation

Home Address, including state

Phone #

Email