Refugee Congress Celebrates Ruling Blocking Efforts to Halt Refugee Resettlement
Refugee Congress celebrates the court ruling blocking the Trump administration’s refugee ban executive order.
On Tuesday, federal judge Jamal Whitehead ruled that the executive order that indefinitely suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and withheld critical funding for refugee resettlement services was unlawful. According to the judge’s ruling, the refugee ban executive order “crossed the line from permissible discretionary action to effective nullification of congressional will.” By granting a preliminary injunction, the refugee ban executive order has been temporarily blocked and refugee processing and funding must resume.
Immediately following the hearing, national and local refugee service providers, faith leaders, political leaders, community members, and local refugees gathered in front of the courthouse for a press conference and rally. Tshishiku Henry, Delegate for Washington, was one of the speakers at the rally, and shared his resettlement journey and the positive impact refugees have in their community.
“In 2018, during the first Trump administration, my wife, our two children, and I were granted the opportunity to begin again on American soil. But for us, it wasn’t just a new chapter—it was a lifeline,” Tshishiku said. “I stand before you—not just with words, but with a plea from the heart: I urge this nation—and especially the Trump administration—to reinstate the refugee resettlement program and unfreeze the funding that allows this lifeline to continue.”
Since the executive order went into effect on January 22nd, thousands of refugees, family members, resettlement service providers, and community sponsors were negatively impacted or harmed by the order, including over 20,000 refugees who were considered “ready for departure” and whose flights were canceled. The lawsuit was filed on February 10th by the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), on behalf of Church World Service (CWS), HIAS, Lutheran Community Services Northwest (LCSNW), and nine individuals who were directly impacted.
“Today’s ruling sends a clear message that unlawful attempts to ban or block refugees from safety will not stand. Americans want to welcome refugees. Not only do we know that refugees make our communities stronger, it is the right thing to do,” said Nili Sarit Yossinger, Executive Director. “While this ruling offers temporary reprieve from the tragic impacts of recent executive actions, we remain committed to ensuring the safety and dignity of all who are experiencing forced displacement. Refugee Congress continues to work alongside our communities and partners in advocating for inclusive policies, opposing any actions that threaten our neighbors, and upholding our nation’s commitment to welcome.”
