Fix the System

    Consider their freedom our opportunity. We should be thankful for the opportunity -- even if it is a challenge -- to take in the freedom-seekers arriving at our borders. 

   From a BBC story, we read, "As of 8 March, the number of children held in US immigration facilities had tripled in just two weeks -- to 3,250. Of that number, nearly half had been in detention longer than the three-day limit and were in CBP-managed facilities that were designed for adults."

  The administration seeks to process them in in 72 hours as part of what Republicans call "catch-and-release." Once they are processed, they are released on their honor to report back for their scheduled hearings.

   There, then, is the first place we should fix the system. Instead of just processing them in, rule on their asylum claim right during that 72-hour period. Adjudicate them, then and there. You have 72 hours. Run their background checks, call their sources and when it is reasonable to allow them to stay, let them stay.

   The second thing that needs changed, is that to my understanding, some unaccompanied minors (most?) are being placed in homes with non-relatives. We should change that. We should seek out family members -- parents when possible -- and bring them to accompany the children. Many parents are sending their children north to enjoy freedom and prosperity not available to themselves. They cannot have it for themselves, but they want their children to have it. 

   So, go back and get the parents and tell them, they, too, are welcome. We are a nation that respects the right to flee from oppression, and to seek freedom and the American dream. Let not just the children come, but their parents as well. Keep the families intact.