AS TRUMP SWORN IN, ADVOCATES READY TO OPPOSE ATTACKS ON IMMIGRANT FAMILIES

EL PASO, TEXAS — Donald Trump, in today’s inaugural address, reiterated his intent to pursue policies that would intensify immigration enforcement. Research confirms that immigration enforcement operations deter United States citizens, lawfully-present immigrants, and other people in immigrant families from using health and social services programs for which they qualify under federal law. The proposal would threaten the health and wellbeing of millions in immigrant families, as well as worsen social problems ranging from unmet health care to poverty, hunger, and homelessness.

Because immigrants account for about one-tenth of Black people in the U.S., one-third of Latine people, and two-thirds of Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, such policies would also widen racial disparities. And since immigrant families are more likely than all-citizen families to work lower-wage jobs, advocates expect the order to widen the nation’s wealth gap.

In response to Trump’s remarks, the Protecting Immigrant Families coalition (PIF) issued the following statement by its director, Adriana Cadena:

“Trump’s vision puts our country at risk by perpetuating systemic inequalities that widen the gap to essential resources all families, regardless of immigration status, need to thrive. The PIF coalition’s 750 member organizations are ready to oppose his reckless, radical, racist agenda. We challenge congressional Democrats to defend the nation against these attacks and stand with immigrant families.

“Immigrant families need to know that Trump has not changed eligibility for health care, nutrition or housing assistance or public charge policy. If policy changes, PIF and partner organizations will share accurate information right away. For now, the best thing immigrant families can do is continue to get the help and care they need.”