Honoring 44 Years of the Refugee Act of 1980

As we mark the 44th anniversary of the Refugee Act of 1980, Refugee Congress stands in recognition of the United States’ history of welcoming refugees, asylum seekers, and forcibly displaced people. This landmark legislation, signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, symbolizes our nation’s moral imperative to provide refuge for those fleeing persecution, violence, war, and climate disasters around the world. It solidified the principles of compassion, empathy, and solidarity as integral to our national identity.

In the face of unprecedented global displacement, with more than 110 million people now forcibly displaced, the importance of upholding the US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) cannot be overstated. Now, more than ever, we must advocate for the protection and expansion of this program to ensure that refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced individuals and families can find safety and hope within our borders.

“As we reflect on the Refugee Act of 1980, let us uphold our moral imperative with compassion, empathy, and solidarity, standing as a nation that defines itself by welcoming refugees, asylum seekers, and all forcibly displaced people with safety dignity, and hope,” said Sharon Njie, Delegate for Louisiana.

“In this commemorative day of the Refugee Act of 1980, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the principles of humanity and solidarity,” said Luis Mejia, Delegate for New York State. “Every refugee has a unique story, undeniable worth, and boundless potential. It is our duty and privilege to offer them not only refuge but also the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”

“Although USRAP was established to help create a refuge in the United States for forcibly displaced people, let’s not forget that refugees have historically made significant contributions to our country. Therefore, it behooves us to continue to support and, more importantly, enhance this valuable program not only as a humanitarian endeavor but one that brings the kind of diversity to the United States that is unmatched anywhere else in the world,” said Sohrab Sharghi, Board Member.

“In this election year and at a time of increasing rhetoric about refugees and border protection, we remind our decision makers that receiving and protecting refugees is one of our key humanitarian responsibilities which is more important now than any other time as we witness the increasing number of over 100 million people who suffer from humanitarian crisis all over the world”, Said Ali Aljundi, Membership Engagement and Leadership Development at Refugee Congress