Statement of Solidarity: ‘Remain in Mexico’ Policy

The Trump administration is taking immediate action in implementing the ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy starting in El Paso, Texas. The policy will require immigrants awaiting their U.S. court hearings to return to Mexico throughout the duration of the often long process. The Department of Homeland Security is expected to remain in El Paso to continue the execution of the administration’s ‘migrant protocols.’

As the Trump administration claims this measure will ensure the safety of immigrants, NBC reports, “the policy has led to dangerous conditions for migrants awaiting asylum in Tijuana, Mexico due to violence, crowding encampments, and vulnerability to local gangs,”

According to Justice for Immigrants, the Bishops of the Texas and Mexico border released a statement expressing their concerns for all immigrants that will be affected by this policy. The Bishops stated, “We appeal to governments, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they not adopt policies that have the effect of increasing the suffering of the most vulnerable.”

The Sisters of the Congregation of Divine Providence support the Bishops in their appeal to governments not to adopt this policy. The Congregation of Divine Providence commits itself to “hear the cry of pain and anguish of the poor, immigrants, women, and earth,” as stated in their 2017 chapter statement. The Sisters are following the mission of Jesus through their support of solutions for our immigration system as well as believing in the power of Providence to bring all things to good.

Approved by CDP General Council