LIRS Commends House Passage of NO BAN Act

For Immediate Release: July 22, 2020

Contact: Timothy Young | tyoung@lirs.org | 443-257-6310

Washington D.C. – Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) applauds the House of Representatives for passing the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants, also known as the NO BAN Act, considered as part of H.R.2486. This important legislation is a first step in ending discriminatory immigration policies that target people based on their religion and nationality, in addition to repealing the administration’s executive orders that implemented travel bans, targeting Muslims, Africans, asylum seeker and refugee populations. 

“The NO BAN Act is more important now than ever,” said Krish O’ Mara Vignarajah, President and CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service. “This legislation is an essential first step in reversing the harmful, discriminatory immigration policies that have put entire populations at risk based solely on their religion or country of origin. We applaud the House of Representatives for standing for welcome and hope the Senate will take similar action soon.” 

In addition to ending travel restrictions against the 13 affected countries, the NO BAN Act will strengthen the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of religion and restore the separation of powers by limiting overly broad executive authority to issue future travel bans.

“We are grateful to Representative Judy Chu, who introduced the bill, and all of the Congressional leaders who are leading efforts to mitigate and prevent future damage from these harmful, discriminatory policies,” said O’Mara Vignarajah. “The NO BAN Act proves our willingness to end policies that close the door on those fleeing persecution and keep families apart. This passage represents vital dedication to restoring the United States to its historic status as an advocate and champion for the protection of vulnerable people.”

To request an interview with Mrs. Vignarajah, please contact Tim Young at tyoung@lirs.org or 443-257-6310

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Founded in 1939, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) is one of the largest immigration and refugee resettlement agencies in the United States. LIRS is nationally recognized for its leadership working with and advocating for refugees, asylum seekers, unaccompanied children, immigrants in detention, families fractured by migration and other vulnerable populations. Through 80 years of service and advocacy, LIRS has helped over 500,000 migrants and refugees rebuild their lives in America.