Call for Advocacy: Restore Refugee Admissions!
Each year near the end of September, the President of the United States announces the “Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions.” The Presidential Determination, or PD, sets the maximum number of refugees that may be resettled in the following fiscal year. Throughout various administrations, regardless of party, yearly refugee admissions typically averaged around 95,000 per year. However, even as the number of displaced persons has grown larger than at any point in human history with nearly 30 million refugees worldwide, the PD has dwindled, set to an all-time low of just 18,000 last year. Watch the video below from HIAS to learn more about the history and importance of the PD.
The trend of decreasing refugee admissions simply cannot continue. As a mutual assistance agency—a nonprofit founded by refugees for refugees—we know that our willingness to welcome newcomers is a reflection of our moral character. Thousands of families stranded around the world could start new lives in the United States, contributing their cultures, knowledge, and work ethic to our society.
And so, as we have in previous years, US Together is joining in the call to restore refugee admissions to 95,000 for Fiscal Year 2021. Here’s how you can help:
This graphic from HIAS shows just how much the PD decreased during the current administration
Speak up and speak out. Call/write your local representatives to ensure that your voice is heard. Sign petitions like this one calling for admissions cap to be restored to 95,000.
Support current and existing refugees by shopping at refugee-owned businesses. Refugees are an integral part of the economy in Columbus; refugees own nearly 900 businesses supporting more than 21,000 jobs in the Columbus metropolitan area.
Get involved with US Together as a volunteer or a donor! Restoring refugee admissions to 95,000 is just a first step. The comprehensive services that we offer ensure that resettled refugees have the resources they need to be healthy, productive members of our shared community. Click here to donate to our summer fundraiser and click here to learn more about our volunteer opportunities.