As we approach the end of December 2022, the looming expiration of the Trump-era Title 42 policy presents a significant test for the Biden administration's commitment to progressive values and democratic institutions. Title 42, a public health order implemented in March 2020, has allowed border officials to turn away migrants at the southern border under the guise of protecting public health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, critics argue that Title 42 has been used as a political tool to deny vulnerable individuals seeking asylum and refuge in the United States, disproportionately impacting people from Central America and African countries. The policy has been marred by reports of human rights abuses, including family separations, improper detention, and lack of access to legal representation.
The expiration of Title 42 offers an opportunity for the Biden administration to restore the principles of social justice, healthcare access, and human rights that are foundational to our democratic society. The administration must prioritize the well-being and safety of migrants by ensuring they have access to comprehensive healthcare services upon arrival, regardless of their immigration status. This includes mental health support, COVID-19 testing and vaccination, and treatment for other pressing health concerns.
Moreover, the administration must address the systemic issues that drive migration from Central America and Africa, such as economic instability, climate change, and political unrest. By investing in programs that promote sustainable development, climate action, and worker's rights, the United States can help create a safer and more equitable world for all.
In addition, the expiration of Title 42 should be used to strengthen democratic institutions by ensuring fair and efficient immigration processes. This includes providing legal representation for migrants, streamlining asylum claims, and implementing humane detention policies. The administration must also work with Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants currently residing in the United States.
The expiration of Title 42 is not just an immigration issue; it is a testament to our nation's commitment to social justice, climate action, healthcare access, workers rights, and democratic institutions. The Biden administration must seize this opportunity to prioritize the well-being and safety of migrants, address the root causes of migration, and strengthen our democratic institutions for a more equitable future.