What has happened to our heart?

Trump’s decision to end DACA puts the lives of over 800,000 immigrant youth in jeopardy and it doesn’t stop there. His new target: nearly 330,000 people with legal status, many parents to American children. These essential workers are here through Temporary Protected Status (TPS) which allows immigrants to remain if something catastrophic happened in their country of origin preventing their safe return — like war, famine, natural disaster, or epidemic. For example nearly 200,000 Salvadoran neighbors here face gang conscription, sexual violence, and human trafficking if they return.

Trump intends to take away the legal status of a million people who have helped make the U.S. stronger. Are we that selfish or blind? They worked here for years, contributing billions to our economy, social security, and even Medicare. They are caretakers of our homes, children, elderly, and the food we eat.

If so many claim we’re “a Christian nation,” don’t we have a moral obligation to uphold the innate dignity of all people and affirm our statue of liberty’s welcome to those seeking brighter futures? We call ourselves “a Christian nation,” so let’s act like it. Jewish, Muslim, Christian scriptures all call us to help:

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

“I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”

“Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none.”

“Blessed are the strangers.”

Demand the Trump administration extend TPS; tell your representatives. It’s urgent.

This story was originally published January 13, 2018 at 3:55 PM with the headline "What has happened to our heart?."