New York, NY, June 15, 2018 — The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to news of nearly 2,000 minors separations from April 19 through May 31, 2018.
Said Jennifer Sime, SVP, U.S. Programs -
"IRC is shocked and horrified by the latest reports that nearly 2,000 children have been separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border in just six weeks.
"Those fleeing severe domestic violence, gang-related violence, or other forms of persecution perpetrated by non-state actors in Central America have credible claims and have the legal right to have their cases heard without being criminalized or separated from their children.
Our staff in El Salvador have witnessed first-hand the acute vulnerabilities and protection needs of women and girls who are victims of brutal violence. A policy of willing cruelty to those people, and using young sons and daughters as pawns, shatters America’s strong foundation of humanitarian sensibility and family values."
For more information or to schedule media interviews in New York or San Salvador, please contact [email protected].