Christina Propst MD: Ensuring Justice and Opportunity for Immigrant and Refugee Children
As noted by Christina Propst MD, when children cross international borders, they do not leave their basic rights behind. Immigrant and refugee children arrive with unique stories and challenges, yet they remain entitled to protection, education, healthcare, and fair treatment under the law. Recognizing and upholding these rights is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility that reflects a nation’s commitment to human dignity. Globally, child-centered protections are guided by the United Nations and articulated in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This treaty emphasizes that every child deserves safety, access to services, and freedom from discrimination, regardless of immigration status. Although implementation varies by country, the principle remains clear: children must be treated first as children, with their best interests placed at the forefront of decisions. In the United States, one of the most significant protections for immigrant children is access to public education. The Supreme Court’s decision in Plyler v. Doe affirmed that denying K–12 education based on immigration status violates constitutional protections. As a result, schools cannot require proof of citizenship for enrollment. This access to education promotes literacy, stability, and long-term economic opportunity for young newcomers.