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West Michigan Hispanic leaders 'appalled' at border crisis

"It breaks our hearts knowing the long term effects this will have on children and families."

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Hispanic leaders in West Michigan are "appalled" at the current border crisis, which includes separating children from their parents.

"I'm very disappointed in large segments of the population that see this as the natural consequence of law breaking without an understanding that laws are made by human beings and laws can be humane or inhumane," said Roberto Jara who has worked with West Michigan's Hispanic community for more than a decade. "In this case we have laws and policies that are inhumane."

Jara isn't alone; leaders at the Hispanic Center of West Michigan released the following statement Tuesday.

"The zero tolerance immigration policy of separating families is immoral, harsh and unnecessary. Therefore the outrage we are seeing across the country is justified. It breaks our hearts knowing the long term effects this will have on children and families. We are hopeful our elected officials will do what is necessary to take corrective action against the continuance of this policy."

Leaders at the Hispanic Center also say the crisis is causing fear among Latino families in West Michigan.

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