A new rule proposed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has sparked controversy and concern among immigrant communities. The rule, which mirrors an old proposal by the Trump administration, would require families with mixed immigration status to either leave their homes or face separation from their loved ones.
The proposed rule, titled “Housing and Community Development Act of 1980: Verification of Eligible Status,” would require all households receiving federal housing assistance to have at least one member who is either a US citizen or a legal resident. This means that families with undocumented members would no longer be eligible for public housing, leaving them with the difficult choice of either leaving their homes or being separated from their loved ones.
This is not the first time the Trump administration has attempted to implement such a rule. In 2019, the administration proposed a similar rule, but it was ultimately blocked by a federal judge. Now, the HUD is bringing back this proposal, causing fear and uncertainty among immigrant families.
The consequences of this rule would be devastating for many families. According to a report by the Urban Institute, approximately 55,000 children who are US citizens or legal residents currently live in public housing with at least one undocumented family member. If this rule is implemented, these families would be forced to either split up or face eviction from their homes.
The Trump administration claims that this rule is necessary to ensure that public housing resources are only used by those who are eligible. However, the reality is that this rule would only serve to harm vulnerable immigrant families and further tear apart our communities.
The proposed rule also goes against the very purpose of public housing, which is to provide safe and affordable housing for low-income families. By targeting mixed-status families, this rule would not only be inhumane but also counterproductive in achieving its intended goal.
In addition to the devastating impact on families, this rule would also have a negative effect on the economy. Immigrants, both documented and undocumented, contribute greatly to the US economy. By forcing families to leave their homes, this rule would disrupt their lives and potentially lead to job loss and economic instability.
Moreover, this rule would also have a disproportionate impact on communities of color. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, 25% of all households receiving federal housing assistance are headed by people of color. By targeting mixed-status families, this rule would further perpetuate systemic racism and discrimination in our housing system.
Fortunately, there is still time to stop this harmful rule from being implemented. The proposed rule is currently open for public comments until July 9, 2021. It is crucial for the public to raise their voices and speak out against this unjust and discriminatory rule.
Many organizations and advocates are already taking action to oppose this rule. The National Low Income Housing Coalition has launched a campaign called “Keep Families Together” to mobilize the public and urge HUD to withdraw this proposal. They are also providing resources for individuals and organizations to submit comments and make their voices heard.
It is important for all of us to stand in solidarity with immigrant families and demand that this rule be stopped. We must remind the HUD and the Biden administration that our country is built on the values of compassion and inclusivity, and we cannot allow this rule to go against those values.
In conclusion, the proposed HUD rule that would force mixed-status families out of public housing is a cruel and unjust proposal. It would not only harm families and communities but also go against the very principles of our country. We must all join together and make our voices heard to stop this rule from being implemented. Let us stand in solidarity with immigrant families and fight for a fair and just housing system for all.
