With this unprovoked war on Ukraine, we are deeply concerned over the humanitarian impact on both the people of Ukraine and those refugees and asylum seekers who have sought safety. Escalating violence and conditions in Ukraine make safe return to the country categorically impossible.

Every single person fleeing conflict has the right to seek safety in other countries and is entitled to protection without discrimination. 

Navigating the US Immigration system is needlessly complex for people who cannot afford to wait for help. 

Call on Congress, Homeland Security, our State Department, and our President to adequately respond to what is becoming Europe’s largest refugee crisis this century, and protect the needs of displaced and at-risk populations:

• Hold President Biden and his administration accountable for the March 24, 2022 decision to welcome 100,000 Ukrainians, by “Fast Track” entry to the United States with a focus on reuniting families, and placement into communities where they have the best opportunity for success, as outlined within the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.
• Strengthen the U.S. resettlement program to address the significant backlogs and bureaucratic delays.
• Provide swift travel and placement assistance to those seeking refuge in the United States allowing them to stay until such time as the conditions in the places of origin permit their return.
• Ensure that for those seeking refuge, the decision to depart to the United States must be entirely voluntary.
• Provide work permission and expedite student visas, immediately designating Special Student Relief (SSR) Ukrainian students in the United States.

Ukrainians are fighting for all of us who favor democracy and self-determination. More innocent lives are being lost needlessly every day.  We should be doing all that we can -- NOW -- to support them in their efforts.

Hopefully the current impetus to help Ukrainian refugees will also benefit the multitude of other human beings from around the world seeking freedom and security and the chance to live, work, and raise their families in this amazing country.