Refugee Hope Partners Statement on the Suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program:
Yesterday, January 20th, an executive order was signed suspending the U.S. refugee admissions program, effectively halting refugee resettlement, beginning January 27.
The U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program was established in 1980 through the Refugee Act. For over four decades this program has allowed a limited number of carefully vetted refugees to rebuild their lives in the United States, providing them with the opportunity to live in safety and freedom. Rooted in America’s values of compassion and protection, the program has become a beacon of hope, embodying the nation’s commitment to human rights and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive in dignity.
Refugees are among the world’s most vulnerable populations, and this executive order halts their opportunity to find safety, rebuild their lives, and contribute to their new communities here in the U.S. You can read the full executive order here.
As followers of Christ, we believe that God’s heart is for the refugee, the sojourner, and the vulnerable. Scripture calls us to love our neighbors and welcome the stranger, reflecting God’s compassion and care for all people. We are heartbroken to see the doors close to the safest and most secure legal pathway for those fleeing persecution to find refuge in the United States. This decision affects not only those waiting for resettlement but also our nation’s legacy as a place of hope and opportunity.
This suspension will have a profound impact on refugees waiting to resettle and on the government-funded resettlement agencies that support them. Many of these agencies, which we partner with closely, will lose critical funding, forcing them to scale back or cease programs that provide vital services to our refugee neighbors.
As a privately funded organization, Refugee Hope Partners is uniquely positioned to step into the gap, but we cannot do it alone. The increased need will stretch our resources as we work to absorb what these agencies may no longer be able to provide.
At Refugee Hope Partners, our mission remains unchanged. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, we will continue to stand with our refugee neighbors and work to make Raleigh a city of welcome. We are committed to engaging, equipping, and encouraging refugee families so that all may thrive.
We call on our community to rally together during this critical time. Your investment is essential to ensuring we can meet the growing needs and continue providing hope and practical assistance to those who call our city home.
We will continue to share information and resources on this issue and our response in the coming days.
Together, we can demonstrate God’s love and compassion for the refugee. Let us continue to make the Triangle a place of welcome for all.
Advocate with Your Treasure Advocate with Your Time Advocate with Your Voice
Beautifully written!!!
Very well stated . Thank you !