As a moral country, the US has always advocated for basic human rights, and especially the rights of children. Michigan’s Children believes all children – citizen and non-citizen-shuld be treated as we would want our own children treated were the tables turned.
In 2023, Michigan had an estimated 42,300 noncitizen children.¹ In 2025, there were about 800 unaccompanied minors in Michigan going through proceedings in immigration courts.² We also know that Michigan is home to many mixed-status families-where some family members are citizens and others are not. We are concerned about the trauma and lifelong impacts of immigration policy on young Americans.
We advocate for:
- Humane enforcement, including:
- No immigration enforcement in sensitive areas such as child care centers, schools, hospitals, etc.
- No child detention or family separation
- Access to legal aid and counsel for children
- Reasonable accommodations to allow immigrant parents to make safety plans for their citizen children before deportation
- Asylum options in cases where immigrants would face danger if repatriated
- Policies that maintain the health & safety for immigrant children and child citizens with immigrant parents
- Clear Public Charge rules clearly communicated and easily accessible.