Global Refuge Condemns Federal Stop Work Order Halting Refugee Resettlement Assistance

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 27, 2025
Contact: Timothy Young | our email

Washington, D.C. – Global Refuge expresses deep concern and dismay over an unprecedented stop work order issued by the State Department, which halts all refugee reception and placement services under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, effectively cutting off vital support to families who have already lawfully resettled in the United States.

The stop work order directly affects thousands of refugees, including Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders who aided U.S. military and diplomatic missions. Refugees rely on resettlement services for essential support such as housing, food, English classes, and job placement. These services are integral to helping families achieve self-sufficiency and become contributing members of their communities.

“Without these resources, 6,000 newly arrived refugees we are currently serving may face the prospect of eviction and food insecurity at a time of critical need,” said Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, President and CEO of Global Refuge. “It is particularly shameful to leave newly arrived Afghan allies to fend for themselves after the tremendous sacrifices they’ve made in support of American interests. This is the antithesis of what it means for the United States to keep its promise of protection to the allies of America’s longest war.”

Federal support for resettlement nonprofits is a key driver of community integration. The sudden cessation of these services risks shifting the burden onto local communities ill-equipped to address the urgent needs that are likely to arise from this decision.

“Without this support, towns and cities across the country are poised to face greater responsibility with fewer resources to help families who have resettled here through this longstanding legal pathway,” added Vignarajah.

For 85 years, Global Refuge has been a steadfast advocate for refugees, working collaboratively with federal, state, and local governments to provide life-changing services. While this stop work order limits operational capacity, it does not diminish the organization’s resolve.

“We are urgently reviewing all legal and operational options to continue supporting the families we serve. We will not abandon our mission or the people who rely on us,” Vignarajah emphasized.

Global Refuge urges policymakers to reverse this harmful decision and calls upon all Americans to stand in solidarity with refugee families.

“Refugees enrich our communities and contribute significantly to our economy. Upholding their dignity and ensuring their success is not just a moral imperative; it’s a reflection of who we are as a nation,” said Vignarajah.

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About us: 

Global Refuge, formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, is a nonprofit serving newcomers seeking safety, support, and a share in the American dream. For 85 years, we have welcomed those seeking refuge, upholding a legacy of compassion and grace for people in crisis. We walk alongside individuals, families, and children as they begin their new lives in the United States through our work in refugee resettlement, welcome and respite services for asylum seekers, economic empowerment and employment, and family unification for unaccompanied children. To date, we have served over 800,000 people from around the globe. At Global Refuge, welcoming newcomers isn’t just our duty—it’s an inherent part of our identity, rooted in our Lutheran heritage and inspired values, and serving as a testament to our unwavering commitment to those in search of refuge.