US Together Official Statement: Ukrainian Refugees

In the wake of recent events in Ukraine, US Together would like to see a commitment from the State Department to continue processing refugee applications from this region. We have cause for concern that those who have been granted refugee status or are currently awaiting their refugee status in Ukraine will be denied access to their host destination as the situation develops.

At US Together, we express full support for the resettlement of those who sought refuge before this news as well as those who will be affected by further developments. We urge the State Department to create a contingency plan to ensure the continued resettlement of displaced persons in Ukraine. As Poland, Romania, and other neighboring countries prepare for an influx of migrants, we believe the United States has the responsibility to take in refugees who have been approved for travel and create an exit plan for those awaiting their status.

In 2020, Ukrainians became one of the largest resettled groups of refugees in the United States. In Ohio, we have welcomed hundreds of refugees from Ukraine throughout the years. Many of our former clients still have family and friends abroad and have been waiting to be reunited with them in the United States.