U.S. Signals Indifference Toward the Plight of Refugees, Officially Lowers Refugee Admissions Ceiling to 30,000 for FY19
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 4, 2018
Press Contact:
Danielle Bernard
dbernard@lirs.org; 410-230-2888
Washington, DC – Today, President Trump formally authorized the reduction of the U.S. refugee admissions ceiling to a historic low, limiting refugee admission to just 30,000 for the new fiscal year. As a veteran leader in refugee resettlement, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) is deeply troubled by the Administration’s signaled indifference toward refugees and the American communities that stand ready to welcome them.
“Since World War II, LIRS has proudly led the Lutheran movement to embrace those seeking refuge in America,” said Kay Bellor, Vice President for Programs at LIRS. “We are troubled by this decision to further limit America’s role in offering protection to those who need it most.”
Last year, the United States admitted less than half of the 45,000 refugees authorized by the Presidential Determination. With that ceiling now lowered to just 30,000, the United States’ refugee resettlement program hinges on the Administration’s commitment to meet that ceiling and fulfill our obligation as leaders in the global community.
“The United States is capable of far more than this,” said Bellor. “With the Presidential Determination signed, our focus is on protecting as many refugees as we can and supporting the communities that are rooted in this life-saving work.”
LIRS will continue to hold the administration accountable for its pledge to admit even the low number of 30,000 refugees this year. At the same time, we call on our nation’s leaders to restore our commitment to welcoming refugees and migrants.
###
Founded in 1939, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is one of the largest refugee resettlement agencies in the United States. It is nationally recognized for its leadership advocating with refugees, asylum seekers, unaccompanied children, immigrants in detention, families fractured by migration and other vulnerable populations. Through nearly 80 years of service and advocacy, LIRS has helped over 500,000 migrants and refugees rebuild their lives in America.
The current administration bring continue to bring shame to our country in so many ways. Our voices must be raised in support of refugees and others with no voice. Even more importantly now we need to vote for those who will support out ideals and actively encourage others to join us.