1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The rescission of policies protecting vulnerable individuals like pregnant people, infants, and the elderly in Customs and Border Protection (CBP) custody is deeply concerning and could be seen as cruel and unusual punishment, directly opposing constitutional protections. Subjecting these groups to inadequate care and inhumane conditions violates basic human rights and dignity. Numerous preventable tragedies have occurred due to CBP's failure to provide adequate medical attention, leading to immense suffering and loss of life. This blatant disregard for the well-being of families and children in federal custody is unacceptable. The federal government has an obligation to ensure the safety and humane treatment of all individuals under its care, regardless of immigration status. Revoking protections for these vulnerable populations betrays our nation's values and undermines the integrity of our immigration system. This policy decision must be swiftly reversed to prevent further harm and uphold the human rights principles our country claims to represent. We urge immediate action to reinstate and strengthen policies safeguarding the health and safety of pregnant individuals, infants, the elderly, and those with serious medical conditions in CBP custody. Failing to do so will only compound the cruelty of our immigration enforcement practices, potentially amounting to cruel and unusual punishment in violation of the Constitution, and tarnish our nation's moral standing on the global stage.