Joint Platform Statement: Urging Support for Refugees & Asylum Seekers
As organizations representing millions of Americans, we call on all political parties and policy makers to be champions for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. With more than 79.5 million people displaced from their homes, the world is facing the worst displacement crisis in history. At the same time, the United States has retreated […]
COVID-19 / Coronavirus Resources for Refugees
Coronavirus, and the disease it causes (COVID-19) is a novel virus that spreads very quickly from person to person, meaning that humans have not built any immunity to it, which is what makes it so dangerous. It can be deadly for immune compromised people. Immigrants and refugees need specific multilingual resources to get the word […]
State Action Toolkit for a Refugee and Immigrant Inclusive Response to COVID-19
Crises test who we are as a nation – and we are stronger when we are united, extend compassion to our neighbors, listen to public health experts, and resist medical prejudice and scapegoating. As states and localities respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that we ensure that all community members are able to […]
State Legislative & Administrative Actions in Response to COVID-19
1. Integrate Immigrants and Refugees into Healthcare Fields In the immediate term, states should issue executive orders (EOs) to allow internationally-trained doctors and healthcare workers to practice in the state, similar to (and potentially broader than) the EO issued in New Jersey. States should streamline re-licensing for immigrants, refugees, and individuals with out-of-state (including international) […]
Challenges Refugees Face in Accessing COVID Relief Provisions
Refugees are significantly impacted by the coronavirus / COVID-19. Many refugees are essential workers or otherwise on the frontlines of pandemic response, including in the healthcare field, as truck drivers critical to the supply chain, and as grocery store employees. Others are without income at this time and with fewer social networks than those who […]
COVID-19 Legislation: Quick Facts and Analysis for Refugees and Resettlement Offices
Congress has passed three packages of COVID-19 related legislation to provide direct assistance to Americans (including some refugees and immigrants), employers, and the healthcare system. The first piece of legislation was passed on March 6th to support the healthcare industry’s response. The second was passed on March 18th to provide free coronavirus testing and expand […]
Refugee Legislation by State
Background on Refugee Resettlement
Resettlement is a refugee’s last option for safety. The definition of a refugee is someone who has fled their country due to persecution based on their ethnicity, nationality, religion, political opinion, or social group. Resettlement is the last resort, when refugees cannot safely return to their home country and when they cannot safely remain in […]
2022 Midterm Election Voting Guide
Voting is your right as a U.S. citizen, and making your voice heard is critical to our democracy. By exercising your right to vote, you empower yourself, support your community, and ensure that your voice is heard by those seeking to represent you. This year’s elections will take place on Tuesday, November 8th, 2022. Mark […]
The Truth About Refugees
Refugees don’t want to leave their homes–they are running for their lives. Refugees are people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape persecution because of their ethnicity, nationality, religion, political opinion, or social group. They leave home to save their lives and to seek safety for their families. Resettlement is […]
