CHC Members Visit US-Mexico Border to Learn About Challenges for LGBTQI Migrants
For Immediate Release
Thursday, May 5, 2022
Contact
202-841-2996
CHC Members Visit US-Mexico Border to Learn About Challenges for LGBTQI Migrants
WASHINGTON, D.C. — CHC Chair Raul Ruiz, M.D. and Rep. Juan Vargas will join the Council for Global Equity and Members of Congress on a trip to the US-Mexico border to learn about the migration challenges for LGBTQI people attempting to access the U.S. asylum system. Prior to this trip, they issued the following statements:
"As we work to fix our broken immigration system, improve border efficiency, and restore asylum at our borders, we must take a humanitarian approach and proactively protect all vulnerable populations lawfully seeking asylum in our country. The LGBTQI community is one of the most vulnerable to face persecution, violence, and abuse in their home countries, throughout their journey to our borders, and in detention centers. As a trained humanitarian and Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, I am going to assess their vulnerabilities and help provide humanitarian protections that are consistent with our American laws and their human rights," said Chair Dr. Raul Ruiz.
"I'm proud to join my Congressional colleagues, especially CHC Chairman Ruiz, on this tour today to learn more about how Congress can support LGBTQI refugees. Far too many LGBTQI people face discrimination and persecution in their home countries. The United States is a beacon of safety and opportunity for those around the world; our immigration system should reflect our values. We must repeal every cruel Trump-era immigration policy, including Title 42, and restore humanity to our immigration laws. I've been an advocate for the LGBTQI community in Congress and remain committed to supporting LGBTQI people at home and abroad," said Rep. Juan Vargas.
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The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), founded in December 1976, is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHC is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories.