~ by Rhina Guidos, Catholic News Service
(CNS) – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the agency involved in deportations and other immigration-related detention proceedings, announced on July 9 it would not detain, arrest or take into custody pregnant or nursing migrants for violating immigration laws except in exceptional circumstances.
This includes women who have given birth with a year, the agency said, adding it was doing so “in recognition of the time needed for infant development and parental bonding.”
“ICE is committed to safeguarding the integrity of our immigration system and preserving the health and safety of pregnant, postpartum and nursing individuals,” said Tae D. Johnson, acting ICE director. “This reflects our commitment to treat all individuals with respect and dignity while still enforcing our nation’s laws.” To read the full account, please click here
An immigration rights activist is seen outside U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement headquarters in Washington July 17, 2020. The agency announced July 9, 2021, that it will no longer detain most pregnant, nursing and postpartum women for deportation. (CNS photo/Leah Millis, Reuters)