asylum
If implemented, this new asylum policy would result in the return of asylum seekers to their home countries to face war, persecution, and even death. Right now, the Administration is taking comments from the public on this plan. And your voice is needed! As people of faith, and an immigrant-welcoming denomination, we are called to work toward ensuring every person has access to safety and home. The comment period closes on Monday, March 27, 2023.
Read Moreby Holly Herman
A couple weeks ago, Rich Doerrer-Peacock, Randy Mayer, Bill Lyons, Susan Valiquette, two National staff visitors (Rev. Joshua Baird, Global H.O.P.E. Team Leader and Rev. Irene W. Hassan, Minister for Refugee and Migration Services), and I took a trip to Casa de la Misericordia in Nogales, MX, a mission project of the UCC, Lutherans, and Episcopalians. It is an amazing place. Sister Lika Mejia is the director and has been there many years. She has organized a refuge for asylum seekers, a place to heal, rest, and prepare for the next step of their journey.
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Please join with us in urging Congress to reject the Public Health and Border Security Act, and any other anti-asylum legislation. Congress must instead commit to restoring and revitalizing our asylum system to ensure that each person is greeted with dignity and humanity. Please also ask your member of congress to urge the Biden administration to uphold its commitment to ending Title 42 by May 23 and work closely with groups and communities who stand ready to welcome them.
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Allan Mestel
Today Rev. Dr. Bill Lyons, Conference Minister for the United Church of Christ in Arizona, New Mexico, and El Paso, Texas issued the following statement calling for the immediate end of Title 42.
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From the ACLU:
In solidarity with Los Revolucionarios (migrant-led organizers) in Nogales, Sonora, we are marking the infamous 2-year anniversary of Title 42 with a rally calling for its end! Join us at Phoenix's ICE Field Office on Monday, March 21 to demand the Biden Administration restore asylum NOW!
Read More“It has been a critical year for our ministry. Most importantly, the United States started processing asylum claims, and every one of the over 200 migrants who had been waiting for the entire pandemic made it safely and legally across the border to begin their asylum process. Laughter and tears accompanied every departure, as family after family passed through their credible fear interview and joined family or friends in the U.S. as they await further determinations. Over 500 people have now made it through in 2021 so far. As people enter the United States, La Casa takes in new families, with our shelter generally housing 120-150 people. More than 50% are children—in fact, in October of this year, four babies were born to parents at La Casa, including one who was actually born in our dormitory!”
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