Congresswoman Lee's Statement on Republican Anti-Immigrant Measures
Washington, DC - Congresswoman Lee issued this statement following the passage of several extreme Republican anti-immigrant measures:
“I am shocked at the inhumanity and lack of consideration for vulnerable children that I saw this evening on the House floor.”
“Earlier this week, I listened to testimony from children who have made this harrowing journey. Their stories reminded me of the words inscribed on the Statue of Liberty and America’s history as a refuge for millions – Republicans have forsaken that legacy, the legacy of immigration that has made this country great.”
“According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 60 percent of these children qualify for international protections. While border security is important, this bill further militarizes the border. That is unacceptable. Nor does this bill address the root causes that contribute to these children being forced to flee violence and abuse.”
“Sadly, these children have fallen into a broken immigration system, a system Republicans would make worse with the measures that passed today. Passing bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform, that has been sitting on Speaker Boehner’s desk for more than a year, would be a good start.”