Refugee Congress Expresses Outrage Over Anti-Immigrant Actions by the Texas Governor
For Immediate Release: July 8, 2022
WASHINGTON–Refugee Congress is deeply concerned and outraged by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order falsely declaring an “invasion” by immigrants and authorizing the Texas National Guard to arrest and expel asylum-seekers and other migrants to the border.
These actions are a violation of the human right to seek asylum, and the dangerous rhetoric of “invasion” puts both migrants and citizens in harm's way, stokes unnecessary fear and perpetuates racism.
As an organization built and led by former refugees, asylees and other vulnerable migrants, we know firsthand that immigrants are doctors, teachers, social workers, service providers, friends and neighbors who make this nation stronger and better. We are deeply concerned about the impact of anti-immigrant rhetoric and actions that endanger us, our communities and the entire nation.
Like us, many of the migrants crossing the border in Texas are fleeing persecution and violence and are seeking refuge in the U.S. Less than two weeks ago, more than 50 migrants died in a truck in San Antonio, an incident Gov. Abbott falsely refers to in his executive order as a reason to pursue his actions. However, a system that criminalizes and threatens asylum-seekers and other migrants only increases the likelihood of further tragedies, as individuals and families have fewer opportunities to find the safe path to refuge that they deserve.
We call on Gov. Abbott to stop this dangerous attack on people seeking refuge, and we call on the U.S. Departments of Homeland of Security and Justice to ensure the protection of the federal immigration system and safety of migrants.
Our nation’s leaders must reject policies like this and Title 42 that subject people who are seeking safety to further risk of violence or death. We can and must be a nation that welcomes people seeking refuge with dignity and humanity.
###
Refugee Congress is a nonpartisan advocacy organization built and led by former refugees, asylum-seekers and other vulnerable migrants to promote the well-being, integration and dignity of all vulnerable migrants. With delegates across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, we use our voices and experiences to inform and influence decision-makers on critical domestic and international issues that affect our communities.
MEDIA CONTACT: (202) 905-6238, media@refugeecongress.org
