Garza: The need to protect civil rights is more urgent than ever

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Rochelle Garza, a Brownsville attorney and president of the Texas Civil Rights Project, has responded to comments President Trump made about immigrants at the inauguration to his second term of office.

Trump said: “Today, I will sign a series of historic executive orders. With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense. It’s all about common sense. First, I will declare a national emergency at our southern border. All illegal entry will immediately be halted. And we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came. 

“We will reinstate my remain in Mexico policy. I will end the practice of catch and release. And I will send troops to the southern border to repel the disastrous invasion of our country. Under the orders I sign today we will also be designating the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. 

“And by invoking the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, I will direct our government to use the full and immense power of federal and state law enforcement to eliminate the presence of all foreign gangs and criminal networks bringing devastating crime to U.S. soil, including our cities and inner cities.”

In response, TCRP’s Garza noted that during his presidential campaign, Trump touted anti-immigrant and anti-democracy measures, in addition to policies that will further dehumanize individuals in the criminal legal system. Garza said the inaugural address reaffirmed President Trump’s campaign promises

“President Trump’s second inauguration marks a critical turning point for civil rights in this country. Civil rights are not and should not be a partisan issue–– they are the foundation of America’s promise: a nation where everyone is treated with respect, dignity and fairness,” Garza said.

“Today’s speech made it clear that President Trump does not intend to uphold these values. From harmful immigration enforcement policies that target vulnerable families, to the directive of denying diversity and equity, the need to protect civil rights is more urgent than ever. 

“At the Texas Civil Rights Project, our fight for dignity continues to be critical. We will continue to stand with impacted communities to fight back against the dangerous federal policies laid out today.”

Garza said TCRP will continue to monitor state and federal legislation and movements related to border and immigration policies, criminal legal issues, and voting rights. She said anyone wishing to connect with herself, attorneys, or advocacy experts, should contact media@texascivilrightsproject.org.

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