Housing advocates around the country are speaking out about the proposed “public charge” regulation’s chilling effect on immigrants’ access to affordable housing and other basic supports. Adding housing programs to the rule could put millions of eligible immigrants at risk of homelessness and housing poverty. Even if housing programs are not included in the final public charge rule, housing advocates should still oppose the rule because it could make eligible immigrant families fearful about accessing other important food and healthcare assistance.
Advocates from multiple sectors are coordinating efforts to raise public awareness about the threat. Leading up to the December 10 public-comment deadline (see Memo, 10/15) organizations like the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), NLIHC, and many others are calling on advocates to submit public comments against the proposed rule changes. During the week of November 19-23, NILC will host a series of activities called “Poverty, Hunger & Housing” to emphasize how housing will be impacted by the rule. We encourage you to participate in a tweetstorm on Tuesday, November 20, at 2:00 p.m. ET/11:00 a.m. PT. Join in the discussion using #ProtectFamilies and share your thoughts on why this proposed rule is cruel and dangerous.
Sample tweets:
- The proposed #PublicCharge rule is cruel and dangerous. Call on the administration to #ProtectFamilies. Submit comments telling the administration you strongly oppose removing basic rights for hardworking families bit.ly/submitcomment
- The proposed #PublicCharge rule places millions of families at risk of homelessness. #ProtectFamilies. Submit comments telling the administration you stand against denying families critical assistance to keep roofs over their heads bit.ly/submitcomment
- Housing stability is crucial for getting families on a pathway to a better life. The #PublicCharge rule threatens this path for low income immigrants. #ProtectFamilies, submit comments to support housing asst. for people w/ the greatest needs bit.ly/submitcomment
For more information about the public charge rule and resources to share on social media, visit the Protecting Immigrant Families website at: https://bit.ly/2RSSCG7