The Episcopal Church recognizes today’s bipartisan compromise as an important advancement to averting another harmful government shutdown. However, we remain concerned about expanded immigration detention and militarization around the border region. In light of the declaration of a national emergency, we are concerned the President is deliberately disregarding the will of Congress, which has Constitutional authority to appropriate funds, in order to pursue a policy that is neither compassionate nor wise. Families, children, and individuals seeking protection are not a national emergency.

The United States should recognize the urgency in the plight of families and individuals who are fleeing violence and persecution and should invest in solutions to safely welcome families who are seeking protection rather than promoting policies that harm those most in need of protection. In alignment with long standing General Convention policy, The Episcopal Church continues to urge members of Congress and the Administration to advance immigration policies that put protection first and maintain rights of asylum seekers.

Furthermore, The Episcopal Church urges elected officials to employ alternatives to detention, keep families together, and seek long term solutions that advance comprehensive immigration reform.