As we prepare to advance immigrant and refugee rights in Washington state in the 2024 legislative session, FAN is deeply concerned about proposed changes to federal immigration policy that are being considered by the Senate and White House as part of supplemental funding negotiations. In exchange for foreign military funding, the White House has signaled openness to several life-threatening policies for asylum seekers, including:

1) Increasing legal standards for access to the asylum system

2) Banning people from asylum eligibility if they travel through certain countries

3) Expanding “Expedited Removal” nationwide, instead of its current scope within 100 miles of the border...

According to the National Immigrant Justice Center, “These proposed permanent changes to U.S. immigration law would make it harder for people to access asylum protection at the U.S.-Mexico border, violate the U.S. government’s obligations under international refugee law, exacerbate the unprecedented humanitarian displacement currently playing out around the globe, and place long-time community members at constant risk of rapid deportation.”

Seeking asylum is a human right! Join us as we raise our voices to safeguard our asylum process and reject policies that endanger asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrants.

Take action today and personalize your letter with examples of your support for asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrants. Is your faith community involved in accompaniment or mutual aid to welcome new arrivals to Washington? Is there a specific part of your faith/conscience that calls you to practice hospitality and welcome those seeking refuge?

- Learn more about proposed policy changes and their effects at the National Immigrant Justice Center.

- Read concerns expressed by members of both the Senate and the House about these proposed policy changes.  

- Broad immigration policy changes that would lead to harm to vulnerable people are opposed by multiple faith groups (Interfaith Immigration Coalition).

Joining with our coalition partners Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW, Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network, and ELCA Advocacy/ELCA AMMPARO in defending the rights of asylum seekers!