This statement can be attributed to Olivia Golden, executive director of the Center for Law and Social Policy.

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2021—The mistreatment of Haitian migrants by Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) in Texas is appalling to witness. The actions are cruel, inhumane, and unacceptable. Haitian migrants arriving at our border are individuals and families fleeing dire political crises, economic difficulties, and natural disasters. They—and all those seeking safety—deserve to be treated with humanity and respect.

These actions reflect the racist nature of CBP and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) practices —whether it’s against Black, brown, or Indigenous people—that have been happening for years at our border and in the United States. CBP and ICE should not terrorize families, and our federal government should not enforce exclusionary immigration policies that disproportionately harm communities of color. There’s no place for dehumanizing, cruel, or racist policies in our immigration system.

The Biden Administration must immediately halt all deportations that put children and families in harm’s way. The administration should stop using Title 42 to expel migrants. And the administration should investigate mistreatment and violent actions and hold CBP accountable.

It’s time that our government steps up to welcome and support children and families coming to our country in search of safety, health, and wellbeing. Our immigration system must be strengthened with a renewed focus on safety, dignity, and compassion.