WASHINGTON, D.C. — With news of Donald Trump’s planned executive order to suspend immigration to the United States, People For the American Way Political Director Lizet Ocampo released the following statement:

“Donald Trump’s decision to suspend immigration to the United States targets some of the most vulnerable in our country, including families, unaccompanied children and refugees seeking to legally enter the United States. Instead of actually dealing with the critical health and safety challenges of this pandemic, Trump is using it to do what he has always done: scapegoat immigrants. It’s his go-to move to help him politically, especially when he’s as desperate as he is now, given his disastrous handling of the COVID-19 crisis. Millions of immigrants are on the front lines working essential jobs to help our nation function. His plan would effectively shut down legal immigration processes and do nothing more than advance his anti-immigrant rhetoric and xenophobia. We need to stand with immigrants and communities of color against Trump’s hate.”

About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org:443/