“If you are smuggling a child then we will prosecute you, and that child will be separated from you as required by law.”                          Words spoken by U.S Attorney General Jeff Sessions on May 7, 2018

A mother's love. Sunday, May 13, is Mother’s Day, a day when we celebrate mothers, grandmothers, and all women who love, nurture, and care for all of God’s children. In light of this day, we are struck by the cruel irony of Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ recent announcement that our government will separate children and their parents rather than keep families together in detention centers.

We, the Sisters of Charity of New York, are truly horrified by Mr. Sessions’ announcement and the position taken by our government. Even in the event of unlawful entry, the separation of children from their parents is indefensible. Such action is inhumane and beneath the dignity of the United States of America.

We call on our elected officials and all to speak out against this injustice and demand an end to the separation of children and their parents. We ask all to join us in praying for a humane and compassionate resolution for our brothers and sisters who have arrived at our border seeking a better life for their families.