The browser you are using is not supported. Please consider using a modern browser.

Skip Navigation

Start of main content.

Press Release // Refugee Resettlement

Global Refuge Statement on Texas Decision to Opt Out of Refugee Resettlement

Global Refuge Staff

January 10, 2020

In response to Governor Abbott’s decision to block refugee resettlement in Texas, Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, president and CEO of Global Refuge issued the following statement:

This is a deeply disappointing decision – although not surprising given Texas’ previous but unsuccessful opposition to refugee resettlement a few years ago. This is precisely why we filed a lawsuit against President Trump’s unlawful executive order, and we are confident that justice will be served — allowing children and families who have been waiting in desperation for years to be reunited with their family in Texas.

Nearly 2,500 refugees started to rebuild their lives in Texas last year, many of whom have additional family members in harm’s way seeking to join them in safety. These families have been torn apart by violence, war and persecution – but we never thought they would be needlessly separated by a U.S. state official.

The governor’s decision unfortunately disregards the desire of so many of the religious communities we’ve worked closely with in Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth and beyond, to live out their faith. Needless to say, we are particularly disheartened by this egregious violation of our religious freedom.

Historically, Texas has served as a beacon of hope for refugees from across the globe, having resettled the highest number of any state. It is shameful that the state is once again trying to illegally reverse this legacy of welcome and compassion now.

We will continue to coordinate with our partners on the ground in Texas. There are simply too many lives hanging in the balance to give up now.

The Latest

Press Release · Refugee Resettlement

September 30, 2024

U.S. Resettles Most Refugees in Three Decades, Maintains FY 2025 Refugee Cap at 125,000

The White House announced today that President Biden has officially signed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Presidential Determination on refugee admissions, maintaining the annual cap at 125,000 refugees.
Read More
News

September 26, 2024

How to Talk to Your Kids About Immigration

Learn how to talk to your kids about immigration from Global Refuge.
Read More
News

September 26, 2024

Supporting Empowerment: A Donor’s Story

"Matt is a proven leader, he understands the economic strength refugees bring to our communities, and he has compassion for welcoming newcomers,” said Jon Buuck, Global Refuge Senior Philanthropic Advisor. “We could not ask for a better partner in the work of welcome.”
Read More
News · Community Engagement

September 25, 2024

Global Refuge on WYPR: Combatting Misinformation about Immigrants

Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, President & CEO of Global Refuge, joins WYPR for a discussion on the spread of misinformation about immigrants.
Read More
Press Release

August 19, 2024

Global Refuge urges thoughtful immigration discussion at DNC

We hope to hear a robust commitment to policies that respect the rights and dignity of immigrants and refugees, prioritize family unity, and reflect the enormous contributions these newcomers make
Read More