NWLC Deplores Final Department of Homeland Security’s “Public Charge” Rule as Assault on Women, Families, and Communities of Color

(Washington, D.C.) Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released its final “public charge” regulation. Public charge has been historically abused to keep out Jews fleeing from Nazi Germany, people with disabilities, and LGBT families – and today, the Trump administration is using it to keep out families of color and working-class immigrants. As set forth in comments submitted in opposition to the proposed rule, this new rule drastically departs from decades of policy and goes around Congress to the detriment of millions of immigrants, with especially devastating impacts on women, children, and communities of color. The rule will separate families and will reinforce the “chilling effect” already discouraging immigrant households from accessing basic healthcare, stable housing, and adequate nutrition for fear that they face a choice between getting help and being separated from their family.

The following is a statement by Fatima Goss Graves, President and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC):

“When given the opportunity, this administration never hesitates to take the low road when it comes to women, communities of color, and immigrant families. Make no mistake, the final DHS “public charge” rule will separate families, inspire fear in communities across the country, and send the clear message that the American Dream is only for wealthiest immigrants, not working-class families.

“We won’t give up fighting this despicable rule. We remain in solidarity with immigrant communities and advocates seeking to block this rule in court.”

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For immediate release: August 12, 2019
Contact: LySaundra Campbell ([email protected])