Roskam calls for change in DOJ, DHS policy separating families

Washington, D.C. – Following reports of families being separated at our borders, Representative Peter Roskam (R-IL) released the following statement:

"The events unfolding at our nation's borders are heartbreaking. Being forcibly separated from a child is a parent's worst nightmare and I cannot fathom the pain these families are enduring.  Every day these children spend apart from their parents confused, scared and alone inflicts additional and unnecessary trauma.

"Whatever circumstances, whatever violence these families faced in their home countries has driven them to these lengths. They have fled to the United States seeking refuge and safety and hopefully one day, a better life for their children. Growing up in Glen Ellyn and raising our four children in Wheaton, I cannot imagine what it would take to make that choice.

 "While I believe we have a responsibility to secure our borders, I also believe that how we treat strangers reflects the moral values this country was founded on. Dragging children away from their parents ought not be a part of the solution.

 "I stand with residents of the Sixth District and urge the Department of Justice and Homeland Security to reverse the zero tolerance policy that removes children from their parents at the border."

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