Pray & Act for the People of Afghanistan. Contact your lawmakers through the ELCA Action Center.

As the United States and other nations withdraw from Afghanistan, Afghan nationals who cooperated with the U.S. military, independent journalists, dissidents, local nongovernmental organization staff and other vulnerable groups are at risk of retaliatory action. With a complete U.S. withdrawal expected by the end of the month and a rapidly deteriorating security situation, the White House and Congress must guarantee a place for all Afghan nationals seeking protection from persecution and fleeing threats to their lives because of their affiliation to the U.S. government.

The Biden administration should immediately provide urgent humanitarian protections, including a full-scale evacuation to U.S. soil of those who have assisted the U.S. presence in Afghanistan.

Your email today will emphasize this urgent need!

Adjudicating lengthy visa applications is a laborious and time-consuming process—a luxury many do not have due to a depleted embassy staff. There is a glimmer of hope—the administration is working to secure the airports for travel as they prepare to ramp up the evacuations of thousands of U.S. personnel, Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) applicants and other vulnerable people, including those who have passed initial security screenings. However, much more coordination and resources are needed.

Fulfilling a commitment to be a sanctuary for people fleeing political and religious persecution, and standing as a beacon of hope, the United States should prepare to receive Afghan nationals affiliated with the U.S. government on U.S. territory, such as Guam, to kick-start the rigorous vetting process they must undergo. Congress can make a difference by ensuring that the 125,000-refugee resettlement goal for FY22 is fully funded and met.

Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) and other resettlement agencies are prepared to assist. LIRS is a leading resettlement agency and has helped 11,244 Iraqis and Afghans resettle in the United States through the SIV program over the years. Hundreds of international organizations, recognizing additional groups in need, are calling on the Biden administration to scale up their humanitarian response and expand programs for protection.

Volunteer to Support Incoming Afghan Nationals with LIRS

LIRS is calling for volunteers to support incoming Afghan nationals who are being evacuated to the United States. They are currently arriving in the Seattle/Tacoma area; the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area; and the Houston and Fort Worth areas. Volunteers are needed to assist in a coordinated response to provide such services as travel, housing, and meals. Sign up for your area here.

Compelled by Our Beliefs

The ELCA’s commitment to peace is based on the belief that all humans are created in the image of God, deserving of fulfillment, safety, and love. At a time like this, the church is called to be a serving presence in society, advocating for generosity and a compassionate welcome for all those in need of a new home. “The Church serves when it holds power accountable, advocates justice, stands with those who are poor and vulnerable, provides sanctuary, and meets human need” (ELCA social statement “For Peace in God’s World,” 1995). That statement also affirms the ELCA’s long-standing practice of welcome and hospitality for refugees. This tradition also includes Lutheran congregations’ sponsorship of refugees following periods of conflict.

Prayer in Solidarity with the People of Afghanistan

Almighty and merciful God,
whose Son became a refugee and had no place to call his own,
look with mercy on the Afghan people who are fleeing from danger, persecution, violence, and seeking the safety of home.

Bless those who work to bring them relief;
inspire generosity and compassion in all our hearts;
and guide the leaders of this nation and nations of the world toward that day when all will rejoice in your kingdom of justice and of peace.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Send a customized letter through the ELCA Action Center today.

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