Immigrant detention has been one of the most troubled features of the United States immigration system. Since the beginning of the Obama administration’s detention reform initiative in 2009, annual detention numbers have reached record levels. The administration has also opened immense new family detention centers, and an overwhelming majority of detained immigrants have remained in facilities where they are subject to standards designed for criminal defendants.
“Unlocking Human Dignity: A Plan to Transform the U.S. Immigrant Detention System,” a report by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and the Center for Migration Studies (CMS), addresses the problems with immigrant detention which, in practice, is often unnecessary and inhumane. The featured speakers in this webinar discussed the report’s findings and will offer policy recommendations that afford increased legal protections and honor human dignity.
Speakers
Kevin Appleby
Director, Office of Migration Policy and Public Affairs
Migration and Refugee Services/United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Tony Cube
National Manager
Justice for Immigrants/United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Donald Kerwin
Executive Director, Center for Migration Studies