As Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers began processing migrants previously halted in Mexico by the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), officials within the government issued the following statements regarding the process in El Paso.
Statement from Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
“Today in El Paso, we began processing a limited number of individuals who were registered through international organizations and determined to have active MPP cases. Approximately 25 individuals completed all necessary screening and testing for COVID-19 before being transported to the Paso del Norte Port of Entry. CBP inspected all arriving applicants and provided guidance on how to print the electronic immigration forms as needed. After CBP and ICE processing was complete, facilitating organizations helped coordinate travel arrangements as needed.
The United States is continuing to strictly enforce existing immigration laws and border security measures. Individuals should not approach the border, including at designated ports of entry, unless and until they are approved and receive appointment information through the remote registration process.”
Statement from Congresswoman Veronica Escobar
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) issued the following statement ahead of the Department of Homeland Security beginning to process in El Paso, individuals who had been forced to “Remain in Mexico” under the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP):
“Today is a day of hope and victory for our shared humanity. Led by President Biden, our nation is reversing the dangerous and unlawful Remain in Mexico policy and finally upholding asylum seekers’ right to due process.
“The Trump administration’s Remain in Mexico policy was cruel, un-American, and designed to endanger vulnerable populations by sending legal asylum seekers into another country, where they fell victim to extortion, kidnapping, and rape while awaiting their hearings.
“As the Department of Homeland Security begins to process asylum seekers in El Paso – our modern-day Ellis Island – I am heartened by our community’s decision to continue employing goodwill and grateful to every El Pasoan who chooses compassion.
“Collaboration across both sides of the border between local and federal governments and humanitarian organizations will be critical in the upcoming months. I am committed to fostering these partnerships and working in Congress for lasting legislation and resources that will protect vulnerable souls arriving at our doorstep and address the root causes of migration.”
