On Monday, February 11, it was announced that a bipartisan border security compromise was reached that would provide $1.375 billion for new fencing along the southern border, though the House and Senate must approve the proposal before it makes its way to the President’s desk.
We as people of faith have an opportunity to speak out. The synod of the CRCNA has long encouraged congregations and individuals to advocate for a fair and just immigration system that honors the inherent dignity of immigrants and refugees. It is a gift to stand alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ, speaking with them in unity for policies that reflect Scripture’s call: “Do not oppress a foreigner; you yourselves know how it feels to be foreigners, because you were foreigners in Egypt.” (Ex 23:9)
As people of faith, we have a unique calling to remind policymakers that it is possible to pass a budget that enhances border security while also protecting vulnerable immigrants and asylum-seekers by increasing access to asylum, keeping families together, and decreasing immigrant detention. We can urge them that any changes made to our immigration system should increase legal paths to immigration - not create harmful, inhumane deterrents.
Call your Members of Congress today to urge them to pass a budget that:
- holds DHS accountable to protecting the legal and human rights of immigrants and asylum-seekers;
- prevents family separation and protects children from the life-threatening harm and trauma of detention;
- And tells the truth about immigrants: Immigrants are a blessing to our economy, public safety, and overall stability in the U.S. Changing our immigration policies should reflect this truth by increasing paths to legal immigration -- not creating harmful, inhumane deterrents.
Read a Backgrounder or return to the Office of Social Justice website.