I never thought I would say this. I am now embarrassed by my country’s leaders.

Our government’s policy on separating children from their parents at the border is the most inhumane, evil practice since slavery. Every one of us is stained by this abhorrent policy.

And make no mistake, it is not a law, it is a policy. Made by people who apparently have forgotten that they, too, are descendants of immigrants. Made by people who have forgotten the inscription on the Statue of Liberty: “… Give us your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. …”

Made by our elected officials whom we have entrusted to run our country with integrity and honor.

Those citizens who do not forcefully and vigorously fight against this policy will be complicit in this national disgrace.

Stand up, people. Speak out. This is the United States of America.

Let the rest of the world know that we are better than this policy. This is not a “left” or “right” issue. It is a moral issue.

If our elected officials do not immediately take action to end this atrocity, then we the people will elect ones who will.

— Audrey Hagopian

Salisbury