Governor Newsom Announces Immigration Relief Efforts after Meeting with Officials, Human Rights Advocates and Business Leaders in El Salvador

Statement

Governor Gavin Newsom spent the past 72 hours in El Salvador examining the conditions leading tens of thousands of families to flee their homes in Central America. Throughout his visit, the Governor discussed regional challenges and economic opportunities with officials including President of El Salvador President Salvador Sánchez Cerén, President-elect Nayib Bukele and U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador Jean Manes. He spoke directly to individuals impacted by gender violence, impunity and poverty -- from women to children to youth seeking 21st century job skills as a way to bypass gang involvement.

"Reading about the humanitarian challenges in Central America is vastly different than seeing them first hand," said Governor Newsom. "These past few days I heard horrific stories -- from women being imprisoned for miscarriages to kids being killed for walking down the wrong street on their way to class. It's this insecurity and lack of opportunity that is contributing to migration. And rather than support pathways to safety and opportunity for Central American countries, the White House is cutting aid and further fueling a pathway to migration."

"While the Trump Administration abdicates its responsibility in the region, California punches above its weight class," added Newsom. "We will be part of a multi-lateral solution."​

In response, the Governor announced action to bolster immigration relief, through family reunification services and holistic legal representation for immigrants and asylum seekers in California. The Governor also announced his support for H.R. 6, the Dream and Promise Act, which provides an opportunity for permanent status and a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, Temporary Permanent Status (TPS) holders and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients.

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