Support Protections for Children

Support Protections for Children

From: Episcopal Public Policy Network


Children in Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala are fleeing their homes to escape deadly violence and extreme poverty. Often traveling alone, they are seeking protection in neighboring countries, including the U.S. The UN Refugee Agency reports that at least 58% of those unaccompanied children seeking asylum in the U.S. are likely to qualify for international protection.

In order to uphold international law and human rights standards, the U.S. must employ careful and lawful screening processes for children seeking asylum. Unfortunately, this is not the reality. Many of these children face trial without representation and a clear understanding of the asylum process. The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2016 (S. 2540/ H.R. 4646) is a bill that would address this issue by ensuring access to counsel, legal orientation programs, and post-release services for children and other vulnerable individuals while they are in immigration court proceedings.
As people of faith, we are called to strive for justice and peace, and Episcopal policy passed by General Convention calls on Episcopalians to advocate for a just system of asylum for persecuted persons. The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act would ensure justice for children who have been forced from their homes and are seeking safety and opportunity.


Contact your members of Congress today to tell them to support S.2440 and H.R. 4646!