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

Washington, D.C., June 21, 2019—The Center for Law and Social Policy condemns the raids on immigrant families that are reported to be imminent across the country, which are the latest move in the Trump Administration’s relentless and cruel attack on families and children.

Raids cause long-term harm to the health, safety, and wellbeing of children. We know from research that when children witness the arrest of a parent—particularly in their own home—they are at greater risk of developing mental health and behavioral problems that have long-term implications for their overall development and future success. We are deeply concerned that the children and youth caught up in these raids—some of whom are U.S. citizens—will be the latest victims of an administration that has shown little compassion for even the most vulnerable. After all, this is the same administration that ripped babies from their parents’ arms just over a year ago through its deplorable zero-tolerance policy and continues to lock up thousands of asylum-seeking children and youth in makeshift tent cities.

The consequences of massive raids extend far beyond those who are apprehended or arrested. Large-scale enforcement actions inflict chaos, fear, and instability on entire communities. Intentionally terrorizing families and children is flawed, misguided, and immoral—and will do nothing to deter migration. We are committed to doing all we can to continue to push back against Trump’s fear tactics, which are an affront to our nation’s values.

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CLASP is a national, nonpartisan, anti-poverty organization advancing policy solutions for people with low incomes. For 50 years, we’ve offered trusted expertise, a deeply knowledgeable staff, and practical yet visionary approaches to opportunity for all. CLASP centers the voices of people with low incomes, equips advocates with strategies that work, and helps public officials put good ideas into practice. Our solutions directly address the barriers people face because of race, ethnicity, and immigration status. For more information, visit clasp.org and follow us on Twitter @CLASP_DC.