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Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) issued the following statement ahead of the Department of Homeland Security beginning to process in El Paso, individuals who had been forced to “Remain in Mexico” under the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP): 

“Today is a day of hope and victory for our shared humanity. Led by President Biden, our nation is reversing the dangerous and unlawful Remain in Mexico policy and finally upholding asylum seekers’ right to due process.

“The Trump administration’s Remain in Mexico policy was cruel, un-American, and designed to endanger vulnerable populations by sending legal asylum seekers into another country, where they fell victim to extortion, kidnapping, and rape while awaiting their hearings.

“As the Department of Homeland Security begins to process asylum seekers in El Paso – our modern-day Ellis Island – I am heartened by our community’s decision to continue employing goodwill and grateful to every El Pasoan who chooses compassion. 

“Collaboration across both sides of the border between local and federal governments and humanitarian organizations will be critical in the upcoming months. I am committed to fostering these partnerships and working in Congress for lasting legislation and resources that will protect vulnerable souls arriving at our doorstep and address the root causes of migration.”

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