A large group of clergy men and women, representing Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities, are traveling to Texas to help separated immigrant families. 10 of these good folks are rabbis, with all 4 of the Jewish movements represented. 

The purpose of their trip is to observe, assist, and peacefully protest this terrible situation that involves over 2,000 children. Since the policy of breaking up families at the border has been recently changed, I’m hopeful things will turn around for the better.

We have a huge immigration problem, that’s for sure, but we must take a compassionate approach to fixing it. It is a felony to enter the country illegally and we can’t continue to have such chaos; however, we also need to provide safe haven when appropriate to refugees and others who are truly in fear for their lives. 

Everyone that enters illegally is entitled to a hearing. That is only fair. Some detainees languish for years before the court can even see them. There are numerous cases of children being abused and assaulted as they wait, without any adult to care for them. Allowing children to stay with a relative in a family detention center is a much safer and more humane option and the cost is no greater. I would also like to see more care being provided for the disabled and special needs individuals. 

Those of us who are lucky enough to be born American citizens should never take that privilege for granted. Our ancestors struggled so we could have a better life. All of my great grandparents and one of my grandmothers was an immigrant. My family has been here since the early 1900’s and I am so grateful every single day.

I can certainly understand why other people are willing to risk their lives and their children’s lives to get here. I try to put myself in their shoes and consider how they’re feeling before condemning them. America is the best place on earth; a lot want to be here. Can we take everyone? Unfortunately, no, but we do have room for legal immigrants, especially ones who can benefit the country with their skills. (Obviously, there must be a vetting process to keep out criminals and terrorists, but there is nothing wrong with bringing in good families.) 

There is no quick fix to illegal immigration. Pretending it will magically go away is foolish. We can enforce the law without being cruel. We must take a biblical approach, focused on the God-given humanity of every person, rather than a hard-hearted one of extreme punishment and separation.