As one of two Native American Women ever elected to Congress, I know it is a historic time to be engaged in politics regardless of background.  We have been elected to lead during a time of divisiveness; a time where white supremacy has been proliferated by the current administration, and, unfortunately, cited by some terrorists for their attacks.  This has caused many issues, such as border security and those seeking asylum, to be blown out of proportion and grossly mischaracterized.

Last week I joined supporting the Dream and Promise Act of 2019, H.R. 6.  This legislation supports Dreamers and their families so they do not have to worry about being forced from the only country they call home.  The bill allows Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status, and Deferred Enforced Departure holders the means to contribute fully to the country they love and know to be their home by providing a pathway to citizenship.

I will always stand up for immigrants and fight to ensure that families can enter the United States to exercise their legal right to seek asylum without the threat of criminal prosecution, mistreatment, detention, and family separation.  I pledge to condemn those responsible for instructing, condoning, and participating in these abuses and support legislation to help those affected by trauma perpetuated by the current administration.

Throughout history, immigrants have sought a better life in America and their many contributions are what make our country what it is today.  That is why I will continue to hold the administration accountable for any attempts to increase the detention or inhumane treatment of refugee and immigrant families.  I will fight for a comprehensive approach to fix our broken immigration system that recognizes the humanity and dignity of the people seeking a better life in our country.

My colleagues and I took an oath on January 3rd and I did so solemnly with the understanding of what it means to stand up, speak out, and lead when others in elected office are abusing their power and not honoring their responsibilities to their constituents.