Refugees and Asylum Seekers
The United States has a longstanding tradition of welcoming individuals from around the world who are seeking protection and refuge. But recent U.S. policy has grown increasingly hostile toward asylum seekers and refugees. Instead of turning vulnerable individuals away, the United States should maintain its global reputation as a leader in refugee resettlement and humanitarian protection. Doing so not only upholds American values but sustains and strengthens our communities. Data from the Council shows that refugees and asylees make tremendous contributions to our economy as earners, taxpayers, and consumers. Learn more about the contributions and challenges of asylum seekers and refugees below.
Federal Court Orders Timely Bond Hearings and Legal Protections for Asylum Seekers
In a groundbreaking decision, a federal judge in Seattle dealt a blow to the government’s campaign to deter and obstruct asylum seekers applying for protection in the United States. Judge Marsha Pechman ordered the government to provide certain individuals with bona fide asylum claims either a bond hearing before an immigration judge within seven days of their request or to release them from detention. Read More
Complaint Brings Injustice in El Paso Immigration Court to Light
The complaint demands an immediate investigation into systemic due process concerns at the El Paso Service Processing Center (SPC) immigration court in El Paso, Texas. Read More
The Kansas City Star Commentary: Compassion for immigrants embedded in Jewish history. We should now repay kindnesses
Last summer, I traveled to migrant shelters in Tijuana with T’ruah, a human rights organization of 2,000 rabbis and cantors, and HIAS-the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society. I was moved by the mothers I met at the border. These were women who had been deported and separated from their families, but… Read More
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No one should face the immigration system alone