The Detention Watch Network is launching a campaign urging Congress to bring an end to Operation Streamline. Started in 2005 under the Bush administration, Operation Streamline funnels migrants that cross the border into the criminal justice system to be prosecuted for immigration related “crimes.” Those apprehended at the border for the first time are prosecuted for the misdemeanor offense of unauthorized entry punishable up to 6 months in prison and those re-entering the country after a prior deportation order are prosecuted for felony re-entry punishable up to 20 years in prison.

On February 4, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) held its first meeting on comprehensive immigration reform. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) made critical points in the meeting that are oftentimes missing from the debate.