Ep 16. Separated: Children At The Border

Separated: Children At The Border is an intense and emotional episode in the 36th season of the award-winning documentary series Frontline. This episode provides a deep dive into the Trump administration's policy of separating families at the Mexican border. The documentary provides firsthand accounts and interviews with parents who have been separated from their children, as well as immigration lawyers, government officials, and social workers who have been involved in the process.

Throughout the episode, Frontline explores the different sides of the argument surrounding the policy; critics point to the emotional harm inflicted on the children and the long-term negative effects on their mental health, while supporters argue that the policy serves as a necessary deterrent to illegal immigration. The documentary also delves into the bureaucratic chaos surrounding the implementation of the policy, with different agencies and departments struggling to keep track of the thousands of children who were separated from their parents.

Separated: Children At The Border is deeply emotional, revealing the real-life impacts of a policy that has been highly controversial since its implementation. Viewers are introduced to families who have been torn apart and children who have faced immense trauma at the hands of the US government. The documentary brings together powerful footage and interviews with families, lawyers, and officials, painting a vivid picture of the human toll of the policy.

One of the strengths of the episode is its ability to move beyond the political rhetoric on both sides of the issue and show what really happens to the families caught up in the debate. Viewers see the impact of the policy on individual families and children, not just abstract political arguments. This gives a sense of the urgency and importance of the issue and makes it clear that this is not simply a matter of statistics or policy debates, but of real human lives.

Separated: Children At The Border is a must-watch for anyone interested in the ongoing debate over immigration policy in the US. It provides an in-depth look at one of the most controversial policies in recent years and shines a light on the human stories behind the headlines. The documentary is not afraid to tackle tough questions or grapple with the complexities of the issue, making it a sobering yet necessary watch for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the situation.