The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reports that nearly 1,500 migrant children, separated from their parents due to immigration policies, are currently unaccounted for. In a recent Senate subcommittee hearing, federal officials revealed that these children were placed with adult “sponsors” across the nation, but 1,475 of them are now missing.
Between October and December 2017, HHS conducted follow-ups with the agency responsible for connecting these children with sponsors. Out of 7,635 children, 6,075 remained with their sponsors, while others had either run away, been deported, or were living with different individuals. Unfortunately, the whereabouts of the remaining 1,475 children are still unknown, leaving many families heartbroken and uncertain about their children’s safety.
Once these migrant children reach the age of 18, they can no longer be held in HHS facilities, and the agency is obligated to notify the Department of Homeland Security regarding whether the children should be detained or released into the community. However, the subcommittee found that HHS only forwards plans for one in three children, raising concerns about efficiency and accountability.
Numerous immigrant families face the grim reality of separation at the border, often without clear procedures for reuniting. Reports indicate that children as young as 18 months have been deported without their parents, highlighting a deeply troubling situation. “Parents arrive in Central America with no idea of how to get their children back,” noted Laura Higgins, director of a migrant rights organization.
This situation has sparked outrage and calls for government action, particularly directed at the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection. While many of these separations occurred prior to the current administration, the ongoing policies have exacerbated the problem and led to further incompetence in locating these children. In Arizona alone, reports indicate 200 cases of child separations since January. The sight of an infant less than a year old appearing in court alone is a stark reminder of the inhumanity of this situation.
Recently, Homeland Security Secretary, Mark Trent, stated, “My decision has been that anyone who breaks the law will be prosecuted.” He emphasized that regardless of familial status, crossing the border unlawfully would lead to prosecution.
Advocacy groups like the ACLU are urging the public to take action, emphasizing that the current administration is sending a clear message that immigrants are unwelcome. They criticize the disregard for constitutional rights and basic human decency in efforts to deter immigration.
As this unfolding crisis continues, organizations like MomsRising.org are calling on citizens to reach out to Congress and demand immediate action, as the separation of children from their parents is an undeniable violation of human rights.
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In summary, the ongoing issue of unaccounted migrant children separated from their parents highlights significant flaws in the current immigration system. Advocacy for humane treatment and family reunification is crucial as the nation grapples with the consequences of these policies.