JRS/USA Election Statement: Priorities for New Leaders
The 2024 US elections are just around the corner, and JRS/USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving refugees and asylum seekers, wants to make sure our voices are heard. We believe that welcoming and protecting refugees is a core value of the United States, and we urge all candidates to prioritize policies that reflect this commitment.
What's at Stake?
The lives of refugees and asylum seekers are at stake. They arrive in the US seeking safety and opportunity, fleeing persecution and conflict. Their journey is often fraught with hardship and danger, and they deserve compassion and support. Sadly, recent years have seen a decline in the US's commitment to refugee resettlement and a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment.
Our Priorities for New Leaders:
1. Increase Refugee Admissions: The US should restore refugee resettlement to pre-Trump levels and increase admissions to reflect the ongoing global need.
2. Protect Asylum Seekers: The US must ensure access to fair and humane asylum processing, including legal representation and access to due process. We need to end policies that criminalize seeking asylum and separate families at the border.
3. Invest in Refugee Integration: New leaders should prioritize funding for programs that support refugees in finding jobs, housing, and education so they can thrive in their new communities.
4. Promote Refugee Inclusion: It's crucial to address the root causes of displacement and advocate for policies that prevent future displacement through conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and diplomacy.
Moving Forward Together
JRS/USA believes that all people have the right to live in dignity and safety. We urge all candidates to commit to policies that protect refugees and asylum seekers. Let's work together to build a more humane and welcoming society.
Please take action!
- Contact your elected officials and tell them to prioritize the needs of refugees and asylum seekers.
- Support JRS/USA in our mission to serve refugees and advocate for their rights.
- Spread the word about the importance of refugee protection and welcome.
Together, we can make a difference.