AAP Statement Opposing Separation of Mothers and Children at the Border
by: Fernando Stein, MD, FAAP, President and
Karen Remley, MD, MBA, MPH, FAAP, CEO/Executive Vice President, American Academy of Pediatrics
"The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) opposes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposal reported in the media that would separate immigrant mothers from their children when they arrive at the U.S. border.
"Pediatricians work to keep families together in times of strife because we know that in any time of anxiety and stress, children need to be with their parents, family members and caregivers. Children are not just little adults and they need loved ones to comfort and reassure them.
"Federal authorities must exercise caution to ensure that the emotional and physical stress children experience as they seek refuge in the United States is not exacerbated by the additional trauma of being separated from their siblings, parents or other relatives and caregivers. Proposals to separate children from their families as a tool of law enforcement to deter immigration are harsh and counterproductive. We urge policymakers to always be mindful that these are vulnerable, scared children.
"The American Academy of Pediatrics is ready to assist federal officials in crafting immigration procedures that protect children."
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AAP Child Health Advocate Award Nominations
Deadline: March 24, 2017
The AAP Child Health Advocate Award recognizes the significant accomplishments of public officials and private sector advocates who have served as a voice for children in state and local government. The award honors these individuals for their contributions to child health and safety and serves as a stimulus for continued action in child advocacy.
The AAP Committee on State Government Affairs (COSGA) invites you to nominate a state or local government official or child health advocate for the 2017 AAP Child Health Advocate Award. This individual may be recognized for a single significant achievement or for a career dedicated to advocacy for children.
To nominate a child advocate from your state, please complete the short nomination survey: 2017 Child Health Advocate Award SurveyMonkey
Please complete the survey by March 24, 2017. All surveys must be completed by the deadline in order for each nominee to secure full consideration.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Jeff Hudson at 800/433-9016, extension 7799.
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Addressing Food Insecurity: A Toolkit for Pediatricians
Food insecurity is an unfortunate reality for too many American children. Irregular or unhealthy diets can affect a child’s mental and physical health, as well as cause developmental risks and poor educational outcomes.
However, we can help minimize the long-term effects of a childhood food insecurity. Through advocating for programs and policies, pediatricians and health providers can be a supportive voice for the children who cannot speak for themselves. Learn more about Federal Nutrition Programs and how to screen for food insecurity with this toolkit developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Food Research and Action Center.
Find the complete toolkit here.
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