Congressional Hispanic Caucus Statement on World Refugee Day

WASHINGTON— Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, released the following statement to mark World Refugee Day:

"Right now, we're witnessing a humanitarian crisis on our own doorstep. Families fleeing violence, persecution and death are arriving at our Southern border searching for a better life. Instead of acting with compassion and human decency, the Trump Administration has implemented policies – like Remain in Mexico, metering, lowering the number of refugees admitted, and cutting off humanitarian aid – that only serve to cause chaos, inflict cruelty, and deepen the crisis.

"Meanwhile in communities along the border and across the country, activists, advocates, and lawyers are stepping up to help the vulnerable. Communities like mine in San Antonio are feeding the hungry and helpless. They are opening their doors and hearing unimaginable stories of suffering: the murders of loved ones, young girls who have survived rape, and harrowing violence. Americans helping these asylum seekers are holding firm to America's immigrant heritage and values.

"The Trump Administration's actions will be remembered as a stain on our nation's history – when our government turned their backs on those most in need. As we mark this World Refugee Day, I call on President Trump to halt his xenophobic agenda and begin treating those at our border with human compassion, dignity, and respect."

# # #

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.