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Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service advocates on a variety of legislative and administrative issues that affect refugees, asylum seekers, immigrants, and migrant children. Our advocacy is informed by over seven decades of service expertise in resettling refugees and working alongside migrants in the United States. We advocate for just and compassionate policies for all of America’s newcomers, offering a unique voice in the struggle for change.
LIRS seeks to create a culture of welcome for these newcomers by focusing on the following areas of concern:
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Humane Enforcement
LIRS strongly supports humane alternatives to U.S. immigration detention. We promote community support programs that allow migrants, who may be refugees and victims of trafficking or torture, to remain with their families and communities as they navigate the immigration system.
Read more on immigration detention.
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Family Unity
LIRS believes in keeping migrant families together. We advocate for reform that supports family reunification and protects families that are at risk of separation.
Read more on family unity issues.
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Comprehensive Immigration Reform
There are currently an estimated 12 million people living in the United States without lawful immigration status. Our country's immigration system is broken and outdated. LIRS supports a comprehensive solution to create a fair and humane immigration system.
Read more on comprehensive immigration reform.
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State Enforcement Issues
Recently, many states have considered or implemented strict immigration enforcement laws as a reaction to our nation’s broken immigration system. LIRS is concerned for the negative impact of harsh state immigration laws on families and communities.
Read more on state enforcement issues.
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 Refugee Resettlement
In 2010 LIRS resettled over 10,000 refugees in the United States through our nationwide network of resettlement partners. We draw upon years of service expertise to advocate for protections and services for refugees.
Read more on refugee resettlement.
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 Migrant Children
Children often come to the United States with family members or may find themselves alone without a parent or guardian. LIRS recognizes the particularly vulnerable position of migrant children and advocates for better protections and services for them.
Read more on migrant children.
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Visit the LIRS Action Center to Stand for Welcome and call for the reform of our broken immigration system!
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