Upwards of 52,000 children have been detained and await deportation hearings at the U.S. Southwest border. President Obama has declared the situation a humanitarian crisis and resolved to expedite hearings. In the wake of this crisis, the issue of legal representation becomes especially important. No child deserves to face a deportation judge by themselves.
But thousands will be alone, facing deportation without an attorney. Some are as young at 5-years-old. Can you imagine a lost and confused kindergartener completely alone in front of a judge? This system isn't just.
All people, especially the most vulnerable children, have a right to an attorney. If President Obama is sending tens of thousands of children through accelerated hearings, then we should also provide legal representation so that no child is alone on their trial date. These children need proper legal representation if they are to receive the refuge and fair trial that everyone deserves.
Sign the petition to let President Obama know that you support fair legal representation for all children facing deportation.
Dear President Obama,
I believe that it is unjust that thousands of children face deportation judges without an attorney. No one, especially vulnerable children, should have to go to trial without proper legal representation.
[Your comments here]
I call on you, President Obama, to create a just system where all children facing deportations receive legal counsel. These children should not have to be alone on their trial date.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
