I’m writing to update you on some of APA’s recent actions regarding the Trump administration’s policy of separating children from their parents/caregivers at the border. APA has been focused on this issue the past few years, and has ratcheted up our communications and advocacy in the past few weeks to communicate the science that shows the psychological, physical and emotional harm likely to result from this policy.
- APA President Jessica Henderson Daniel, PhD, made a strong statement on the issue on May 29. That message was quoted in many media outlets, including The New York Times and many outlets across the country, such as the Deseret News.
- The New York Times ran an editorial on June 14 that used the example of three powerful organizations who are speaking out and that the Administration is still not acting:
The United Nations human rights office called this new practice a serious violation of the rights of children and demanded an immediate halt. Catholic bishops denounced it as immoral. The American Psychological Association warned that the separations threatened the mental and physical health of the children.
- I participated in a press conference June 14 on this issue, which resulted in more media coverage, including a piece on CNN.
- And just yesterday, APA President Daniel and I sent a letter to the White House urging the administration to rescind the policy, citing the psychological research indicating the harmful impact on children’s mental health and emotional development.
- APA also signed on to a massive letter spearheaded by Physicians for Human Rights that is being sent to every member of Congress.
All of these steps are in keeping with the work APA has done for years advocating to keep immigrant families intact, testifying before Congress even as far back as 2010.
APA will continue to be vocal about the impact of this policy, I will continue to talk to reporters, and our public affairs team will continue to rely on experts in our membership to be available for interviews.
We have been receiving many emails and calls about APA’s activities in this area. I encourage you to cross post this message to your boards, committees, and networks; share the articles on social media and in other forums; and spread the word broadly.
Arthur C. Evans, Jr., PhD
Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice President
Executive Office | 202-336-6080 | [email protected]