VP Kamala Harris statement on the situation at the border and call with HSS Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas

The disturbing video and photos that surfaced over the weekend showing border patrol agents mistreating Haitian immigrants that were attempting to cross into the U.S. at the Southern border prompted Vice President Kamala Harris to release the statement below.  In some instances it appears that the agents, mounted on horses, were cracking whips at migrants while it is not clear whether some were struck. It also appeared that White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in the press briefing Wednesday that the patrol agents in question are now on administrative leave pending an investigation.  The Biden Administration did not readily condemn the agent's actions as Psaki initally said more context was necessary. Migrants were being stopped at the border and froced to return to Mexico where they were not welcome.  "As we speak out against the cruel, the inhumane, and the flat out racist treatment of our Haitian brothers and sisters at the southern border we cannot and we must not look away in this moment," Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley said on Wednesday at a press conference. Following is one of the images that reminds some Black Americans in particular of slavery. 

Statement by Senior Advisor and Chief Spokesperson Symone Sanders
on the Vice President's Call with
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas

Yesterday, Vice President Harris spoke to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to receive an update about his trip to Del Rio. During that call, the Vice President raised her grave concerns about the mistreatment of Haitian migrants by border patrol agents on horses, and the need of all CBP agents to treat people with dignity, humanely and consistent with our laws and our values. Secretary Mayorkas shared the Vice President’s concern and noted that he looks forward to updating her on the investigation by the Office of Professional Responsibility once it concludes. Secretary Mayorkas also spoke with the Vice President about the efforts DHS has underway to address the humanitarian needs of people at our border in Del Rio through the provision of food, shelter, clothing, and medical care, as well as engagement with non-governmental and international organizations.
 
The Vice President acknowledged the attention and concern Secretary Mayorkas shared and looks forward to following up with him in the coming days. 

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