In remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr., Refugee Congress calls on elected leaders to pursue justice and equality for all
Today we honor and remember the life, legacy, and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on a day also weighted with the inauguration of President Trump.
Dr. King’s vision to uplift our communities and move toward social and economic justice for all continues to resonate deeply with us, motivating our work and driving our mission to ensure equality and justice for all Americans, including refugees, asylees, and others who seek and find safety in the United States.
At the same time, we recognize today’s inauguration, which brings consequential impacts to refugees and forcibly displaced communities, as they will be most affected by proposed policies and anticipated Executive Orders from the incoming administration. Policies that promise to restrict access to asylum and immigration, separate families, and weaken basic civil and human rights. We have seen over the last decade how false narratives, misinformation, campaigning against refugees, and promises of mass deportation have already harmed communities of newcomers.
On this day, Refugee Congress reiterates its firm commitment to refugees, asylum seekers, and all forcibly displaced people and communities in the United States and around the world. We remain dedicated to protecting the rights of displaced people, defending the safety and well-being of those seeking safety, and creating welcoming and inclusive spaces at local, state, national and international levels.
As our newly elected leaders take their oaths of office today, we call for them to uphold Dr. King’s vision of equal rights for all, regardless of race, gender, socio-economic status, political affiliation, or country of origin. We insist that the incoming administration act in full responsibility of its duty, shedding divisive and harmful anti-immigrant rhetoric, and committing to unite the country on shared values of welcome and protecting those seeking safety.
Likewise, we urge state and local leaders to defend the rights of our most vulnerable community members. And we invite our communities and neighbors across the country to stand with our refugee and immigrant neighbors.
“Dr. King’s legacy has never been more important to uphold than it is right now, at this moment. Today, we watch a transition of leadership that was borne out of a democratic process but is also a reminder of the fragility of democracy, when not upheld and protected. We must honor this day, and honor Dr. King by standing by our neighbors, welcoming those who seek refuge, and protecting the rights of our most vulnerable community members. Refugee Congress is proud to lead by example in creating a more just and welcoming world,” said. Nili Sarit Yossinger, Refugee Congress Executive Director.
“Dr. King once said, ‘We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.’ This quote resonates deeply today as we reflect on our shared humanity and the need for unity, even amidst uncertainty,” said Aisha Koroma, Delegate for Washington DC. “The transition of leadership is a reminder of the democratic principles that allow us to continue advocating for the rights and dignity of all people, including refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced communities. No matter the challenges ahead, our commitment to justice remains steadfast.”
“In the spirit of Dr. King’s dream, we cannot turn a blind eye to the plight of those forced to flee their homes. On this Inauguration Day, we urge our nation’s leaders to stand with displaced communities and join us in forging a future where all people have the right to peace, security, and hope,” said Sharon Njie, Delegate for Louisiana.
"Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a reminder that the dream of justice, equality, and peace lives within each of us , and together, we can make it a reality,” said Sara Deewa, Delegate for New Mexico.
“On this significant Inauguration Day, we honor his legacy as we stand united in advocating for the rights, dignity, and protection of refugees, asylum seekers, and forcibly displaced communities,” said Mohibullah Noori, Associate Delegate for California.
“True greatness is measured by how we lift others. Dr. King’s dreams calls us to ensure that no matter where someone’s journey begins, they can walk in freedom and dignity,” said Rose Lokwang, Delegate for Ohio. “Each inauguration reminds us of our shared responsibility to lead with compassion, honor diversity, and ensure no one is left behind. The strength of a nation is not measured by its borders, but by its embrace of humanity.”
“How fitting that the inauguration this year falls on a day we celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. who said, ‘The time is always right to do what is right.’”, said Sohrab Sharghi, Board Member. “As a non-partisan organization, Refugee Congress is agnostic to the administration in power and continues to vigorously advocate for fair and just treatment of all forcibly displaced people, beholding to Dr. King’s view: ‘The moral arc of the universe bends at the elbow of justice.’”
“Regardless of the administration in power, collaboration and continuous advocacy are essential to ensuring a more inclusive and compassionate society. Today is a powerful reminder of Dr. King’s legacy of fighting for justice and equality. His vision inspires us to keep fighting for a world where every individual, regardless of where they are from or their circumstances, is treated with dignity and respect,” said Alimas Hussein, Delegate for Northern California.
“For us with personal connections to immigration or refugee experiences, this moment carries profound significance. Many of us have lived the challenges of navigating a new country, seeking safety, and building a better future. These experiences fuel our resolve to work tirelessly for a society where everyone, regardless of their origin, can thrive without fear or discrimination,” said Paul Mwingwa, Delegate for Montana. “As we honor Dr. King’s vision, we also recommit ourselves to holding leaders accountable, amplifying the voices of those most affected, and building bridges of understanding and solidarity. Together, we can ensure that justice prevails over division and hope triumphs over despair.”
