Washington, DC – Interfaith Immigration Coalition (IIC) Co-Chairs Elissa Diaz and Peniel Ibe comment on the confirmation of Antony Blinken as Secretary of State, and pending vote to confirm Alejandro Mayorkas as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Elissa Diaz, Policy and Advocacy Manager at Church World Service and IIC Co-Chair
The Trump Administration’s xenophobic destruction of the U.S. refugee resettlement program is a tragedy. Tony Blinken will have to rebuild the program so that the U.S. again offers a permanent home to people who fled war and persecution. As a refugee resettlement organization, we often hear refugees say that they thought the United States was a beacon of hope and democracy. We expect Blinken and the entire Biden Administration to make that a reality. Communities across the country stand ready to lay out the welcome mat.
Peniel Ibe, Policy Engagement Coordinator at the American Friends Service Committee and IIC Co-Chair
Alejandro Mayorkas has a unique opportunity to not only reverse the prior administration’s anti-immigrant policies, but build something bold and visionary. He must end the human rights abuses perpetrated under the guise of “security” by the agency. We need a new paradigm when it comes to immigration policy. A paradigm that recognizes the God-given humanity of every person, respects human rights and dignity, is responsive to the needs of our communities, and is accountable and transparent. One that extends out of love, not racism, coercion, and control. In addition to closing immigration jails, ending deportations, and rooting out anti-Blackness in U.S. immigration policy, Mayorkas must work with Congress to pass humane immigration laws. We must repeal laws built on racist foundations, with control and dehumanization at their core, and enact ones rooted in shared humanity.
The IIC’s blueprint for change in the Biden-Harris Administration contains three broad priorities:
- Bring accountability, compassion, fairness, and morality to immigration and other policies. Tear down walls and build communities.
- Decolonize the U.S.’ role in other countries as they build and strengthen.
- Work with Congress to pass bold, humane, and compassionate immigration laws.
Read more about the changes needed here.
The Interfaith Immigration Coalition is made up of over 55 national, faith-based organizations brought together across many theological traditions with a common call to seek just policies that lift up the God-given dignity of every individual. In partnership, we work to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of all refugees and migrants.
Follow us on Twitter @interfaithimm
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