The Honorable Joe Biden

The White House1600 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.

Washington, DC 20500

 

Subject: A Call for Urgent Action to Expedite Family Reunification for Earthquake victims in Turkey

Dear Mr. President,

     I am writing on behalf of the Center for New Americans (CNA), a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting the Turkish Immigrant Community in the United States. In light of the recent catastrophic earthquake disaster in Turkey, we are deeply saddened for our country, the innocent lives lost, and those who tragically lost everything overnight. Our hearts are filled with great sorrow as we are profoundly concerned for the well-being of all the families affected by this tragedy. We believe this is a critical time to come together and perform our duty to advocate for the necessities of our anguished community.

    The aftermath of this natural disaster is far more drastic than can be depicted; 40,000 innocent lives were lost in one night. Survivors are left homeless, in a state of shock, despair, and hopelessness after living through the deadliest natural disaster of the decade. This tragedy separated families, going them to search for safety, stability, and shelter. Unfortunately, despite the numerous previous devastations Turkey has experienced, the Government was unprepared and greatly lacked proper materials and resources. Presently Turkish people are relying heavily on international aid and assistance. Apart from critical and crucial physical service and monetary contributions, we hope to go one step further by expediting the family reunification process for those affected by the earthquake in Turkey. Being here, in a country where all our basic needs are met, we hope that the United States of America, The United States Congress, and The President of the United States will do all in their power to act swiftly to ease the pain and suffering of the millions who lives were forever changed the early morning of February 6th, truly.

    We are calling for creating a special visa program to allow the family of U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and Asylee in Turkey to reunite swiftly with their loved ones in the United States. This is a vital time to put the well-being of families first and alleviate the anguish of the families stuck in cities that have become ravaged; similarly, to ameliorate the powerlessness and desperation those here are feeling as their hands are tied and are unable to reach, comfort or save the rest of their families. The aftermath of this disaster has furthered its catastrophic effects leaving survivors, volunteers, and victims in freezing temperatures without proper medical assistance, food, or water. This program should prioritize processing to expediting the visa application process and waiving fees to ensure a smooth and efficient process to save as many lives as we can from the dire conditions they are left in and reunite them with their loved ones, whom they have been separated from for years on end.

     At CNA, we advocate for the right and well-being of immigrant communities; we believe that a humanitarian approach is crucial in assisting those in need. The creation of this special visa program and the expedited processing of applications would not only bring comfort to these families but also demonstrate our country's commitment to supporting those affected by natural disasters.

   We hope you will consider this request and take the necessary steps to help those affected by the earthquake in Turkey. A program like this will lift the onerous wait times and relieve the forlorn hope that is felt by millions today.

  Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Center for New Americans 

  cc.  Vice President Kamala Harris     

        U.S. Senate President Patty Murray       

       Speaker of U.S. House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy

       Director of the USCIS Ur M,Jaddou