As a United States citizen, I am deeply ashamed and troubled by our government’s inhumane treatment of the men, women, and children being held in appalling conditions while they await processing.  Even stray dogs and cats receive better care in our humane societies than these people.  

We pride ourselves on a being a country founded on human rights and justice, and yet in these facilities men, women and children go without necessary medical attention, are forced to sleep on hard cement floors surrounded by filth, and often face a shortage of food and water. These conditions are in violation of basic human rights and dignity, and they tarnish our national values. It is a moral crisis demanding swift and decisive action.

Thousands of detainees, many of whom are awaiting determinations on their asylum claims or other legal proceedings, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. The psychological and physical toll of their confinement under such conditions is immeasurable and cannot be ignored any longer.  These abuses have been documented and reported by employees of the camps, reporters and government representatives.  We can’t say we didn’t know. We can’t claim ignorance.  Will you sit by and allow this unnecessary  and cruel treatment to continue?

We must take concrete and immediate steps to ensure the humane treatment of all detainees. First, adequate healthcare services must be provided in a timely manner to address both physical and mental health needs. Second, the living conditions must be addressed- ensuring that living quarters are clean and sanitary, and that adequate nutritional and hydration needs are met consistently. Third, oversight and accountability measures should be implemented, including regular inspections by independent bodies and the establishment of a transparent complaint and response mechanism.

We call on the relevant authorities to implement these changes immediately, to align our practices with internationally recognized human rights standards, and to restore our nation's integrity.

Please join me in demanding change. Sign this petition to mandate humane treatment for detainees, ensuring they are treated with the respect that every person deserves. Together, we can make a difference and bring about meaningful reform.