California Food Policy Advocates has just submitted comments against the proposed public charge rule: CFPA Letter PDF. If you haven’t already, you can still submit comments to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) until December 10th. Every comment counts, and we urge you to make your voice heard!
Watch the video below to hear why advocates for immigration rights and health justice say we need to fight back against these proposed changes.
CalFresh makes a huge difference for families struggling to make ends meet. And the benefits of helping families afford healthy food are far-reaching and long-lasting, particularly for children. But the proposed public charge rule would use fear to deny eligible immigrants and their families access to CalFresh, and other vital assistance programs.
This is a racist and classist attack on working class immigrants. Those who strive for opportunity and security in the U.S. should not be penalized for, or made fearful of, participating in programs that make the ‘American Dream’ more attainable. When families can stay together, keep themselves healthy, and contribute to our economy, that makes things better for all of us. Enacting this change won’t just hurt immigrants-it would drive entire communities deeper into poverty and hunger.
We Can Fight Back!
DHS is accepting public comments on this rule until December 10th, 2018. Under federal law, DHS is required to read and respond to every unique comment before it can finalize its harmful regulation.
This is our opportunity to influence policy. Every comment submitted will slow down the process of expanding the public charge rule, shape the administration’s decision, and show the force of support that is behind our immigrant communities.
We have already surpassed the 100,000 comment goal set by the Protecting Immigrant Families Coalition, but there’s no reason to let up now! We still have 6 days to go, submit your comment today to protect immigrant families.
Fight Back!
2 Ways to Take Action:
- Submit a comment Here.
Follow our template comments or use one of the many templates available in the comment portal.
Download our full comment PDF
here. - Join the California Social Media Day of Action- Wednesday, Dec 5th!
CFPA is partnering with organizations across California for a digital day of action on Wednesday, December 5th. Together we will amplify our voices to say #NoToPublicCharge! Take a look at our social media toolkit and be part of the movement.
Stay in Touch
Have thoughts or questions? Please contact Gabby Tilley at gabby@cfpa.net.
In partnership,
Team CFPA
