President Joe Biden issued an executive order on Tuesday that temporarily bars migrants from seeking asylum at the United States-Mexico border if the seven-day average of illegal crossings exceeds 2,500 per day. The order, which took effect overnight, will remain in place until the average falls below 1,500 per day.
This decision impacts many, including Haitian immigrant Jean Civil, who resides in Providence, Rhode Island. Civil, who arrived in the US three years ago, has five family members waiting at the Mexican border, unable to cross and fearful of returning to a violence-stricken Haiti.
The order has sparked criticism from immigration advocates and some Democratic lawmakers, who argue it is inhumane and violates long-standing asylum laws. Elizabeth Sweet from the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition emphasized the US's historical role as a safe haven. Advocates, including Fritz Sanon from Mattapan, Massachusetts, expressed concern over family separations and challenges in reuniting with relatives.
The new policy has also drawn intense reactions globally. The United Nations has expressed profound concern, calling the move a potential threat to those seeking protection from persecution.
Meanwhile, political reactions are mixed. Some Republicans criticize the action as insufficient, while others, like Texas Senator Ted Cruz, view it as a belated political maneuver. Progressive Democrats, including Representatives Ilhan Omar and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, called the move a betrayal of American ideals.
This significant policy shift, occurring just months before the presidential election, underscores Biden's challenging political landscape as he balances immigration control with humanitarian obligations.