Recent reports indicate that nearly 1,500 migrant children, who were placed in various homes by government agencies, are currently unaccounted for. According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), these children were separated from their parents under existing immigration laws. During a recent Senate subcommittee hearing, federal officials disclosed that these missing children had been initially placed with adult “sponsors” across the United States, but 1,475 of these children are now considered lost.
A review conducted by HHS from October to December 2017 revealed that out of 7,635 children, 6,075 remained with their sponsors, 28 had fled, five were deported, and 52 were under the care of different individuals. However, follow-up efforts failed to locate 1,475 children, raising serious concerns about their safety and well-being. For many migrant families, this tragic situation means a potential permanent separation from their children.
Once these children reach the age of 18, they can no longer be held in HHS facilities. At that point, the agency must inform the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding whether the children are to be detained or released into the community. Alarmingly, HHS has only relayed plans for one-third of these children, according to findings from the subcommittee.
The situation is dire for immigrant families, many of whom are struggling to reunite after being separated at the border. As highlighted by advocacy groups, there are very few procedures to assist families in locating one another, often resulting in permanent separations. For instance, reports indicate that children as young as 18 months have been deported without their parents or vice versa. This raises crucial questions about the government’s treatment of vulnerable individuals. In light of these developments, many are demanding answers — where are the children?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are facing increased pressure to take action. While the issue predates the current administration, the stance on immigration and family separation has exacerbated the problem. For example, in Arizona alone, approximately 200 cases of child separations have been reported since January of this year. The image of an infant, less than a year old, appearing in court alone is a distressing reminder of the current state of affairs.
Homeland Security Secretary, Anna Rodriguez, recently stated, “We will prosecute anyone who breaks the law.” She emphasized that any parent or individual crossing the border outside designated entry points would be referred for prosecution. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has launched a petition directed at the DHS, criticizing the administration’s tactics and arguing that the messages being sent to immigrants undermine constitutional rights and basic human decency.
Organizations such as MomsRising.org are encouraging individuals to reach out to Congress and DHS, stressing the inhumanity of separating infants and children from their parents and urging immediate action.
In summary, the plight of nearly 1,500 missing migrant children reflects a deepening crisis in the U.S. immigration system, raising ethical concerns and demanding urgent reform. For those interested in family planning, resources like Women’s Health provide valuable information, and you can learn more about home insemination options with the Cryobaby at Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, for those considering future family planning, The Future of Egg Freezing is an essential guide.