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The Progressive

NewsWire

A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release

Reported Cuts to Essential Services for Unaccompanied Children in Federal Shelters are "Unconscionable"

WASHINGTON

The Trump Administration reportedly will suspend English classes, legal aid, and recreational programs to unaccompanied migrant and asylum-seeking children detained in federally-run detention centers. The following can be attributed to Denise Bell, researcher for refugee and migrant rights at Amnesty International USA:

"It's bad enough that the Trump administration is trying to normalize the warehousing of children. It's unconscionable that they would so blatantly try to strip them of their rights. Locking up children and then denying them legal aid, education, and even playtime is all part of this administration's cruel efforts to dehumanize people who have come to the U.S. seeking safety. Children's human rights must be protected by ensuring they receive proper care while in government custody and are released as soon as possible."

Background: Amnesty International staff recently observed conditions at the federally-operated "temporary influx center" for unaccompanied children in Homestead, Fla. Researchers observed a stark difference between the smaller, permanent, state-licensed shelters and the federal facility, which is not subject to the same regulations. More information about their findings can be found here: https://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/government-relations/advocacy/amnesty-international-visit-to-homestead-facility-april-2-2019/ and staff are available for interviews.

This statement can be found online here: https://www.amnestyusa.org/press-releases/reported-cuts-to-essential-services-for-unaccompanied-children-in-federal-shelters-are-unconscionable/

Follow Amnesty International USA on Twitter.

Amnesty International is a global movement of millions of people demanding human rights for all people - no matter who they are or where they are. We are the world's largest grassroots human rights organization.

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