eNewsletters

Dear friend, 

This past Sunday we heard reports of more than 60 people of Iranian descent that were held at length and questioned at the Peace Arch Border Crossing in Blaine, WA. We spoke to families who said they were held in secondary inspection at length and questioned about their political views and allegiances without explanation, with some being held for up to 12 hours before they were released. 

This week, I led a letter along with Senators Murray that was sent to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The letter, which was signed by 70 Members of the House of Representatives, asks DHS to explain whether there was any directive or instruction issued to hold people of Iranian descent at our nation’s borders and why these individuals were held. 

Men, women, and children legally entering or returning to the U.S. at a designated port of entry must be treated fairly, not arbitrarily held and questioned based solely on their religion, ethnicity, or national origin. I am working with my colleagues to better understand how these events came to happen so we can prevent this kind of unfair treatment in the future. You can read my full letter to DHS HERE. DHS also announced yesterday that they are conducting an investigation into these events.  

As always, I am here to help you. If you need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my Bothell office at (425) 485-0085. For more updates on what I’m doing for WA01, you can follow me on social media at the links above.   

Sincerely,   

Suzan