Defense of Democracy Podcast
Friends. Allies. Americans. Folks taking small steps towards big change. The Defense of Democracy podcast tells their stories. Hosted by Addison K. Witt.
Defense of Democracy is made up of people from all walks of life passionately committed to nonpartisanship. We welcome anyone who is interested in protecting their fellow Americans - in particular those in marginalized communities - from oppression.
We advocate for legislators, educators, and administrators who will work to maintain communities as well as a public education system that supports and enhances our shared experiences regardless of religious beliefs, cultural background, or sexual orientation.
Find out more: https://defenseofdemocracy.org/
Podcast produced by the Volunteers of Defense of Democracy
Defense of Democracy Podcast
Reforming Immigration: Protecting Children and Families with Suma Setty and Kaelin Rapport
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Suma Setty and Kaelin Rapport of the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) about immigration policy, family separation, and the impact current enforcement practices are having on children, caregivers, and communities across the United States.
Drawing on recent research conducted with immigrant families, childcare providers, healthcare workers, and community organizations, Suma and Kaelin share firsthand accounts of how fear, uncertainty, and immigration enforcement are affecting everyday life. Together, they explore the consequences of family detention, barriers to legal status, childhood trauma, access to education and healthcare, and the broader social and economic effects these policies have on communities.
This conversation moves beyond political talking points and focuses on the lived experiences of children and families navigating a rapidly changing immigration landscape. It is a thoughtful discussion about human dignity, public policy, community responsibility, and what it means to create a society where all children can feel safe and supported.
Key Takeaways
- How are current immigration policies affecting children and families across the United States?
- What are the long-term developmental and mental health impacts of childhood trauma and family separation?
- Why are immigrant families increasingly fearful of accessing schools, healthcare, childcare, and public spaces?
- How do immigration enforcement practices affect local communities and the broader economy?
- What misconceptions do many Americans have about the immigration system?
- Why is obtaining legal status often far more complicated than people realize?
- What policy changes could better protect children, families, and community well-being?
- How can ordinary citizens become more informed and engaged on these issues?
Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization!
For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org
Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to 845-208-9846
Follow, Like and Get Involved!
Connect with DofD on all the social platforms:
Facebook
Twitter
TikTok
Instagram