1 in 4 Project Learning Series: Protecting Immigrant Children in Hostile Times

In the United States, 1 in 4 children live in immigrant families and are facing heightened risks due to the rise of anti-immigrant policies and a hostile political climate. Beginning with the administration’s revocation of the sensitive locations guidance, which previously shielded schools, hospitals, and places of worship from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions, families are feeling more vulnerable and are avoiding seeking medical care, sending their kids to school, and otherwise engaging in their communities.

The fundamental right to a public school education is also under attack, as states seek to roll back the Plyler v. Doe 1982 Supreme Court decision, which guarantees educational access to all children regardless of immigration status. Meanwhile, the administration has relaunched family detention, a deeply harmful practice that inflicts a significant mental health toll on children and their parents.

In this moment, it is essential that funders committed to the well-being of children and youth respond to these attacks on the rights, safety and stability of children in immigrant households.

ECFC co-hosted this Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrant and Refugees discussion to hear from movement leaders from across the country who shared strategies they are using to combat these threats and create the conditions for all children to thrive, including those who live in immigrant families.

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