On July 15, women and children from around the country gathered in Washington D.C. to share their stories and shine a light on the real life impact of immigration enforcement policies, such as Arizona’s SB1070, 287g agreements and the so-called “Secure Communities” programs, on families. The women and children gave personal accounts of how these programs threaten future generations of immigrant families in the U.S. Their testimony was a way of saying "enough is enough" to legislation and policies that spread fear, violate people's civil rights and tear families apart.
The testimonies were presented at a hearing titled, "Impact of Immigration Enforcement Policy on Children," chaired by Congressman Raul Grijalva (D-Arizona).
Several children gave their testimony on this day. Below are the transcripts from 2 of the children who gave their testimony that day:
Mariana C.
"My name is Mariana C. I am seven years old. I am from Lakewood, New Jersey. My mom is a member of New Labor. I don't like the law SB 1070 because it separates families. I don't live in Arizona but I am scared that that law might come to New Jersey because I'll get separated from my parents. I tell God and the president and the people who help him to do something so they can stop this law and all children can be with their parents forever. Thank you."
Aldo M.
"I'm eight years old. I live in Lakewood, New Jersey. My mom is a member of New Labor. I want to stop the law 1070 because I don't want them to separate me from my mom and dad. They came here to work not to do something bad. They only want a better life for us. They're only workers, they only want to work. I am scared that they will take them away. They are hiding from policemen. I am a kid and I want all children to be happy. My voice represents the voice of the children in Arizona. Thank you for listening. Thanks."
