Ramirez Statement on Administration's Use of Overseas Prisons to Violate Civil, Human Rights

Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) released the following statement on the Administration's plan to use overseas prisons to violate civil and human rights.  

“Our country’s commitment to fundamental human rights was a result of a commitment to never again revisit the atrocities of the past. Collectively, world leaders affirmed the inherent dignity and basic rights of all people. But today, U.S. leaders are actively turning their backs on that affirmation and laying the groundwork for authoritarianism. 

Earlier today, it was reported that the first flights to Guantanamo are reportedly happening, separating undocumented immigrants from the protections of our constitution and their due process. Last night, we got word that the Administration is considering the idea of violating the rights of US citizens and their families by deporting those convicted of a crime to El Salvador to fill Bukele's notorious prisons. These reports come on the heels of unelected, unaccountable billionaire Musk’s efforts to end critical USAID programs that ensure people around the world can access clean water, medical care, food, and violence prevention efforts. 

With every action, this Administration abandons the post-Holocaust promise we made to honor human dignity, affirm our shared humanity, and respect fundamental human rights. In trivializing human and civil rights as “legalities,” they are proving they are capable of repeating some of the darkest moments of our history. 

Overwhelming and scaring us is the point. The antidote to fear is action. I will use every tool at my disposal to fight back and protect the people from an Administration hell-bent on violating our human and civil rights.“