What’s New?
On Wednesday, June 4, the President signed a proclamation imposing sweeping travel bans on nationals from 12 countries and restrictions on seven countries, many of which are experiencing war, political instability, or humanitarian crises.
These travel bans and restrictions, which go into effect on Monday, were issued under the guise of national security. While limited exceptions exist, categorizing people based on their country of birth is both wrong and discriminatory.
In a statement, Kristyn Peck, LSSNCA CEO, said:
Categorically restricting access to protection and safety based on nationality goes against our nation's core value of welcoming people escaping violence and persecution. Our faith calls on us to welcome the stranger and shelter the persecuted.
LSSNCA calls for an immediate reversal of this policy, which mirrors previous iterations that failed to make us safer.
What else?
Legislators Introduce Bill to Protect Vulnerable Immigrant Youth
LSSNCA welcomed the reintroduction of the Protect Vulnerable Immigrant Youth Act by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Representatives Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), and Zoe Lofgren (D-CA). This bill would reform the Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) by exempting SIJS recipients from numerical visa limitations.
Created by Congress, SIJS provides permanent legal status (green cards) to children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent in their country of origin. However, because SIJS recipients are subject to numerical visa limitations, vulnerable children can wait years in legal limbo. Previously, SIJS recipients were able to obtain temporary protection and work permits through deferred action while they waited; however, the current administration has halted this practice.
Join our friends at End SIJS Backlog and KIND to urge your member of Congress to support the Protect Vulnerable Immigrant Youth Act.
What You Can Do:
At this time when the news feels heavy and overwhelming, it is vital to be in community and show solidarity with one another. To that effect, we invite you to join LSSNCA for two meaningful conversations to reflect on the strength and courage of refugees and recommit to our shared legacy of welcome. The events are free to attend, and we look forward to seeing you there.
