We just left the Family Residential Center in Dilley, TX where I met Patricia, a mother who fled Honduras after she and her daughter were harassed and by a gang.
The gang molested her daughter and threatened to rape and kill her.
Patricia had no choice but to leave Honduras, like so many others.
Patricia and her daughter have been at Dilley for almost 6 months. Her daughter has been suffering severe depression as a result of the trauma she has experienced—in Honduras and also here in America as a result of her internment
Her 15th birthday is this coming Tuesday. It’s supposed to be a special day - her Quinceanera. Instead of celebrating with friends and family, she will be locked up in an internment camp with her mom.
Patricia and her daughter’s story broke our hearts as she told us about her journey and internment through her tears.
This unconscionable treatment of children and families is unAmerican and not in keeping with our values.
That’s why @maziehirono @SenTinaSmith @RepJudyChu and I are here to investigate and shine a light on the unacceptable treatment of asylum seekers and refugees like Patricia and her daughter. Bear witness. Speak out. This must stop. 
We are about to tour the Karnes Family Residential Center. We’re told there are approximately 500 fathers and sons interned at Karnes. I’ll report back with more when we finish our tour.
