August 7, 2014

In recent months, a large influx of unaccompanied minors from Central American countries across the border has reignited a furious debate over immigration reform. Violence, poverty and unemployment have all been named as reasons for their arrival, echoing the motives of many previous generations of immigrants to this country. 

Immigration reform should be guided by respect for human dignity in order to best reflect our national values. All people, especially children, must be treated humanely, with justice, and not exploited because of their legal status. Only then can the rule of law be maintained, immigration policy fiscally and effectively implemented and job prospects of U.S. citizens protected.

"Overcrowding, lack of privacy, separation from parents, bullying and sickness are all issues that these children are facing right now," said MPAC President Salam Al-Marayati. "This simply cannot continue. Their human dignity and basic human rights are being ignored and many linger in deplorable situations while the immigration debate rages on."