National Hispanic Council on Aging Celebrates the Elimination of Restrictive Policies Against Immigrant Families in the United States

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 -- The National Hispanic Council on Aging issued the following news release on Feb. 3, 2021:

It is not new that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact not only on the global economy, caused by the closure of many jobs and economic losses that add up to millions; but also on health systems. The COVID-19 pandemic has generated millions of sick people, many who have died because of the disease both in the United States and around the world.

The effects of the spread of this virus have changed the way we live, this is especially true in communities of color and immigrant communities - groups that have long been marginalized by society.

These populations have been at the forefront of the pandemic, serving as essential and front-line workers, ensuring the economic well-being and health of the American population by continuing to work on the frontlines of the pandemic.

Despite their dedication, communities of color and immigrant communities were often excluded from assistance by the previous administration through dehumanizing and unjust policies. These unjust policies caused further anguish and harmed many immigrant families, which for generations have served to build this great nation.

Today we celebrate the end of these devastating regulations and witness a new light of hope for our communities in the midst of the pandemic. NHCOA applauds and welcomes the decision of the new administration led by President Joe Biden Jr. and Madame Vice President, Kamala Harris, to reverse policies that prevented immigrant families from accessing health care and economic support during these uncertain times.

"Latinos, particularly Latino older adults, have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. In the work we have done against COVID-19, Latino immigrants have expressed concerns about accessing vaccines for fear of violating the public charge rule, " shared Dr. Yanira Cruz, President and Executive Director of the National Council Hispanic on Aging. "We applaud and thank President Biden and his administration for taking swift action to spearhead the overturning of this inhumane policy that has caused unnecessary harm, fear and stress for many, at an already difficult time"; she adds.

This action is a step forward in the fight against discrimination and abuse that immigrant communities have received in the United States and at its borders. Examples of this include the separation of families, the push for a wall at the border and the abuse of children and women inside Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Centers, in addition to anti-immigrant rhetoric perpetuated by the Trump administration.

The decision to over turn the Public Charge rule brings light to a dark period and charts a course towards creating a unified country, that can value its diversity and vast cultures. A country governed by human values and relies on an equal and fair system for all regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or country of origin. We are pleased with the change in the management of the pandemic, which focuses on the needs of the people and prioritizes the well-being of the population without distinction.

We support the decision of the Biden-Harris administration and urge them to continue making decisions that promote initiatives and develop projects that aim to achieve equity and inclusion for all. We encourage the Biden-Harris administration to continue listening and working with non-profit organizations, like NHCOA, to achieve a unified country that serves all of its residents.

At NHCOA, we recognize that respecting and ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all populations, races, and ethnicities is the foundation for the development of a just and sustainable society. We reaffirm our commitment to continue advocating for communities of color and disadvantaged groups within and outside of this nation, being part of a new era of change and hope. We will work tirelessly to ensure that everyone, especially older adults, age with dignity in this great country.

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