Refugee Congress Condemns New Immigration Executive Order

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 24, 2020

WASHINGTON – Refugee Congress strongly condemns the president’s new Executive Order that bans entry for many immigrants for at least the next 60 days.

The Executive Order will prolong family separation and demonizes immigrants during a time when we should be working together and supporting one another. Xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment have no place in the response to this public health crisis that impacts us all. This is not the time to be sidelined but to come together for common good.

We value the diversity of this country and the important contributions of immigrants, refugees and asylum-seekers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are contributing to our communities in lifesaving ways — as doctors, nurses and other health providers; business owners providing meal assistance to families; chefs providing food to healthcare workers and delivery and service workers ensuring access to the food and supplies we need.

The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded us that we are dependent on each other, no matter where we live, what we look like or where we come from. This crisis has global impacts, and now is the time to embrace our commonalities and ensure the wellbeing of all.

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Refugee Congress is a nonpartisan national advocacy organization built and led by former refugees, asylum-seekers and other vulnerable migrants to promote the well-being, integration and dignity of all vulnerable migrants. With delegates across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, we use our voices and experiences to inform and influence decision-makers on critical domestic and international issues that affect our communities.  www.refugeecongress.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kacy Kostiuk
Communications Manager
(202) 905-6238
kacy.kostiuk@refugeecongress.org