The Parents as Teachers National Center (PATNC) endorses the call to bring attention to the national crisis that families and children are experiencing at the U.S/ Mexico border where more than 16,000 unaccompanied children are currently being held in custody. These children are being placed in overcrowded detention facilities that perpetuate the image of “kids in cages.”
PATNC President and Chief Executive Officer Constance Gully has issued the following statement: “Parents as Teachers has a vision that all children should learn, develop and grow to realize their full potential. The trauma that children are experiencing at the border impacts and impairs the growth and development of not just young children, but the entire family unit.
“Trauma and stress leave a lasting impression on the brain, immune, and nervous systems. The children in custody are placed in detention facilities that are overcrowded and pose unsafe conditions for any child. As an organization that promotes the health, safety, and well-being of families with young children, we will not stand idly by during this crisis. We choose our vocations to safeguard children and to engage with those whose lives are affected.”
“The Parents as Teachers approach that allows us to fulfill our vision and mission is to partner, facilitate, and reflect. Let this serve as a moment to use the Parents as Teachers platform to recognize the complexity of impact, respect human rights, and partner within communities to support children and families. We pledge alongside the Latino Interest Forum at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the Black Caucus, and People of Color Caucus to address this crisis that continues to impact thousands of children and families.”