Trump’s administration has provoked some serious anger by enforcing his new zero-tolerance immigration policy that many are calling inhumane and cruel. The administration has been separating the children of undocumented immigrants from their parents at the US-Mexico border, detaining the children in government facilities and even large cages. Two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump’s policy, according to CNN. And if you are among the two-thirds, you might be wondering what you can do to end this heinous policy.
There has been an increase in pushback against the policy from politicians on both sides, clamoring President Trump to stop this practice. But even if you aren’t an elected official, your voice matters and your voice is important. You have a role to play in reversing the separation of over 2,000 children who’ve been separated from their families in the last six weeks.
Here’s what you can do:
Call your Representatives and Senators
This site makes it so easy to call your federal reps and let them hear how you feel about this shitshow. Do it right now: https://t.co/GNGaDUURHD
— Chris Sacca (@sacca) June 19, 2018
Each and every one of us has at least one Representative and two Senators. But how can you actually get in touch with them? You can find out who represents you in the House of Representatives by entering your zip code on the House website. It will give you information about your own representative, including how to reach him or her.
In order to call your senator, it is easiest to call the US Capitol Switchboard, which the number is (202) 224-3121. All you have to do is say which state your registered in, and they will connect you to the right office. If you want to search for your representatives in both houses at the same time, you can search for them on Call My Congress by entering in your zip code.
Once you are in touch with your representatives ask them about their efforts in pushing for the end of family separation at the border. If they are fighting against the policy, show them your support. If they are not, remind them that you have the power to vote.
Protest
People coming together in protest has always proven to be a way of sparking attention and change. There have been so many local protests with hundreds of people taking to the streets to rally against the “zero-tolerance” policy, but now it is going national. Families belong together is hosting a national day of protest on June 30th against the separation policy, with the main rally in Washington DC from 11am to 2pm. This is your time to have your voice heard, and to hopefully create change.
Support organizations that are fighting against the policy
The best way to fight against this policy is to support the organizations that are working to remove it from law. The American Civil Liberties Union is seeking a preliminary injunction in California to end the practice of family separations and reunite all families currently in the custody of the ICE. You can show your support by signing the ACLU’s petition against family separations or donate to their legal efforts.
On 6/28, we take escalated action in DC demanding Congress do everything in their power to #EndFamilySeparation.
On Saturday, 6/30, we rise up in cities across the nation to say #FamiliesBelongTogether.
However you join, whatever day you can, from wherever you can, TAKE ACTION.
— Women’s March (@womensmarch) June 20, 2018
The Women’s March also has a petition that will be sent to Ivanka Trump. “Whenever women have gained political power or engaged in political activism, we have improved and advocated for the rights of children. That cannot stop now,” the national organization said on their website.
Volunteer
You can volunteer your time at the border communities. If you know Spanish or another language, you can be a major help for refugees in the areas of communication. Immigration lawyers are desperately needed also to volunteer their time and their legal services to immigrants in need. The Immigration Justice Campaign is looking for volunteer lawyers to represent detained immigrants. But it doesn’t just end there. Even if you don’t live anywhere near the border, you can still volunteer at shelters, community centers, and service agencies for immigrants around the country.
Be Loud And Vocal As Much As Possible
All three branches of the government are currently controlled by Republicans. At every event with a Republican official we need to be making demands that they stop this family separation torture. We all play a role. Be loud. Organize, protest, resist. #StopSeparatingFamilies
— Leticia Listens (@leticiadelavara) June 19, 2018
Social media is a powerful tool. By posting on social media, you can help raise awareness and take a stand. Tweet at President Trump and ask for the administration’s plans to reunify families that have been separated. Families Belong Together even has a graphic you can use to have your voice heard.