We are outraged and appalled by reports that the Trump administration is considering the construction of tent camps to house thousands of migrant children, some of whom the government forcibly separated from their parents. The administration’s policies towards immigrants and refugees, driven by blatant xenophobia and fear, are becoming more draconian and cruel by the day — and must be opposed by all people of conscience.

Forcibly separating children from their parents and interning them in government-run tent camps are the acts of a dangerous and immoral regime. It is stunning to see, in the United States of America, in the 21st century, such hideous echoes of the historical experiences of the Jewish people. Our history and our values have taught us to recognize and despise bigotry, persecution and state-sponsored outrages against vulnerable groups. This history and these values compel us to do all that we can to speak out and fight back against the Trump administration’s deeply cruel and un-American policies.

J Street will continue to stand in coalition with the many organizations battling on behalf of immigrants and refugees, and to do all that we can to support the incredible individuals and activists on the front lines of this fight. We call on elected officials at all levels to do everything in their power to stop the Trump administration’s ongoing persecution of those seeking refuge and a better life in our country.