WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, Democrats in the House of Representatives introduced the Keep Families Together Act, which would prohibit Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials from separating children from their parents, except in extraordinary circumstances. The legislation comes in response to the Trump Administration’s policy of separating immigrant children from their parents in detention centers, a practice widely condemned by the child welfare community and medical professional groups such as the American Pediatrics Association. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) is a cosponsor of the Keep Families Together Act.

“The Trump Administration’s disturbing policy of separating innocent children from their parents goes against our core values as Americans,” said Rep. Sewell. “I cosponsored the Keep Families Together Act because we need to put an end to the Trump Administration’s inhumane and unlawful separation policy. Tearing kids from their families when they are at their most vulnerable is a disgraceful abuse of human rights that needs to stop now. If we believe in American exceptionalism and greatness, it is our duty to treat all people with dignity and respect, especially those who are fleeing persecution and seeking safety in our country.  This Administration’s actions fail to live up to that standard.”

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Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) is serving her fourth term representing Alabama’s 7th Congressional district. She sits on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and was recently appointed to the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Sewell is a Chief Deputy Whip and serves on the prestigious Steering and Policy Committee of the Democratic Caucus. She is also a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, and Vice Chair of Outreach for the New Democrat Coalition.