FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, February 24, 2022
Press Contact: Jessica Ortiz, media@raicestexas.org
“Seeking refuge is a human right and the U.S. must meet this moment with rapid action to support all refugees and asylum seekers.”
San Antonio, TX – In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the imminent displacement of millions of people fleeing the conflict and seeking safety from war, Erika Andiola, Chief Advocacy Officer issued the following statement:
“Our hearts are with the people in Ukraine and everyone impacted by Russia’s appalling act of aggression. War is inherently violent, deadly, and destructive, and this conflict will inevitably lead to a humanitarian crisis and the mass displacement of millions of people. We have seen this happen most recently in countries like Haiti and Afghanistan, and the U.S. must prepare to respond immediately. Already, miles of cars are lined up at Ukraine’s Polish and Slovakian borders as people rush to escape, while others are seeking temporary shelter in subway stations.
“Amidst diplomatic efforts to curb this crisis, we cannot lose sight of the human cost of war. While President Biden has taken swift action to impose economic sanctions on Russia, he has yet to address the impact that this conflict and U.S. interventions will have on the lives of people in Ukraine. Although the President mentioned vague references to humanitarian support in his speech today, he has not specified how the U.S. will aid refugees fleeing Ukraine.
“President Biden and Congress must prepare for the imminent refugee crisis and welcome those seeking safety with open arms without hesitation. We are demanding that President Biden act immediately and issue Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to all Ukrainians arriving in the U.S.
“Seeking refuge is a human right and the U.S. must meet this moment with rapid action to support all refugees and asylum seekers.”
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The Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency that promotes justice by providing free and low-cost legal services to underserved immigrant children, families, and refugees. Learn more at raicestexas.org
This post was originally published on RAICES.