Across the globe, people are seeking safety and being turned away in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The spread of COVID-19 is threatening to us all, and most particularly to refugees and forcibly displaced people, but it is not an excuse to institute policies that go against international law and Christian obligations to welcome our brothers and sisters.

In fact, what we are all experiencing is calling us to both welcome and protect one another. As the virus has traveled across borders, it has shown us how interdependent we are, and that we cannot live as nations, races, or people independent of one another.

In the United States, we have a particular obligation to ensure those seeking safety can find it here, as a nation of immigrants and with a long history of leadership in welcoming refugees. But new and existing policies ignore this obligation and put those who have been forcibly displaced and ourselves in danger. You can learn about the impact of these policies in our latest report, Stranded. 

This June, in recognition of World Refugee Day, show your support

Sign the petition below calling on US leaders to protect asylum and continue welcoming our displaced brothers and sisters.

Learn more and check out the recording of our June 18 live virtual event, where experts discussed the current situation on the US-Mexico Border, the impact on asylum seekers in Mexico, and what we can do to ensure our system of asylum stays intact even during a global pandemic.

Share your support. Use this graphic on social media using #WelcomeandProtect or print this sign and post in your window.

Pray for welcome and protection of those who are forced to flee their homes.

Sign Our Petition

Those who are fleeing violence in search of safety are being turned away at borders. Sign our petition to tell policymakers and leaders that, even in a pandemic, we can protect public health and also continue to welcome asylum seekers.

I believe we can both welcome and protect. Even as we put into place strict measures to protect public health, including at our borders, we must recognize international refugee law and welcome those who are fleeing from violence and persecution.

The coronavirus has shown us how interdependent we are, and that we cannot live as nations, races, or people independent of one another. Wars and violence have sadly continued, and we must help our brothers and sisters who are in need.

I join Jesuit Refugee Service in calling on governments and partners to mitigate potential protection risks for refugees and displaced people as public health measures are put in place to respond to the coronavirus. This includes guaranteeing the right to seek asylum and ensuring that adequate reception facilities are in place so that we can continue to welcome and protect