1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

The United States must uphold the fundamental constitutional protections of due process and equal protection for all people, regardless of immigration status. There are currently 41 million immigrants in this country who deserve to have their rights safeguarded. It is deeply concerning that in 2013, 83 percent of people deported were denied a hearing before a judge, violating due process. Furthermore, the exorbitant $1.84 billion spent annually on detaining immigrants reflects misguided priorities that prioritize harmful enforcement over human rights. This nation was built by immigrants, and continuing to welcome those seeking refuge with dignity and compassion will only strengthen us. I urge you to support the ACLU's efforts to challenge unjust immigration laws, protect access to the courts, end indefinite detention, and combat discriminatory policies and enforcement tactics that target immigrants. Upholding civil liberties for all must be a core American value.