Dear Friend,
Yesterday, President
Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at crippling the asylum process, increasing
the detention of migrants, and expanding border enforcement, among other
migration issues. Migration continues to be a divisive topic throughout our
country.
Misinformation about and fear of those who flee their homes too often
fosters hatred and animosity toward our neighbors. Jesus commands us to love
our neighbors. Demonstrate that love today by speaking up on behalf of those
who seek safety and sanctuary in the United States.
Tell policy makers Lutherans support
compassionate policies that provide immediate safety for vulnerable people and faithful
solutions to the conditions that cause people to flee.
As a church rooted in communities
throughout Central America, Mexico and the U.S., we are in relationship with the
children and families who seek safety in the U.S. We have seen the conditions
of violence and poverty that force many to leave their homes. Because of these
relationships, we fully oppose any policies that aim to prevent them from
seeking safety in the U.S. or from being properly screened for trafficking.
We are proud of the ELCA AMMPARO strategy, a holistic, whole
church commitment to accompany vulnerable children from Central America. With
this initiative, the ELCA is working for just and human policies toward
migrants in and outside the U.S.
We stand with our partner, Lutheran
Immigration and Refugee Service, in affirming our collective dedication to
refugees and migrants. Please also visit LIRS.org to
learn more about how you can act now to oppose White House action against
refugees.
Thank you for your leadership on this
important issue.
In solidarity,
Alaide Vilchis Ibarra, Program Director, Migration Policy
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