Our parent agency, the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) strongly denounces President Trump’s Executive Order to suspend the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program. For over 100 years, USCRI has protected the rights and addressed the needs of vulnerable, uprooted people who have lost or left their homes. We support their transition to a dignified life. This Executive Order is contrary to the basic tenets of core American values.
President and CEO, Lavinia Limón has requested a meeting with the Trump Administration including President Trump. “I will ask our new President to reverse this damaging Executive Order and to continue the tradition of the best American values, including equal protection and respect for vulnerable refugees and immigrants. We, and he, the descendants of refugees and immigrants, know that our country is great when all of humanity is recognized. America has always been the beacon of hope for the oppressed and this must continue unabated.”
The US refugee program has been a strong example of bipartisan support and cooperation since its establishment. Refugee admissions are part of a foreign policy strategy that makes our nation a world leader in standing for freedom and human rights and as a beacon of hope for individuals and families seeking safety from persecution. The change is an affront to our values and an impediment to our interests. Join us and stand in welcome. Thank you.
Lavinia Limón