On World Refugee Day, the Washington Center for Human Rights honors both the great challenges that displaced people throughout the world continue to confront, as well as their incredible perseverance in their search of safety. Refugees play an important role in communities around the United States. Washington Center for Human Rights urges the US government to preserve and defend US refugee legislation and international treaty commitments, to treat asylum seekers with decency and justice at our borders and within the US, and to revive and rejuvenate US refugee resettlement initiatives.
While political opposition and the courts have stymied efforts to restart asylum at the border, uphold refugee law, and restore US leadership in protecting the human rights of refugees. The administration’s inertia and mistaken policy choices have undermined asylum and endangered asylum seekers. At the same time, we have seen some progress in the processing of persons who have been forced to depart Ukraine and Afghanistan. Refugees escaping danger and persecution, regardless of their skin color or place of origin, are entitled to refuge. We will continue to defend asylum and welcome anyone in need of protection.
From conducting research at the US-Mexico border to representing asylum seekers across the country, collaborating with Afghan-American community leaders, engaging with human rights defenders at the Polish border, to bringing litigation and advocating on Capitol Hill, our work has demonstrated the strength and bravery required for refugees to make the life-changing decision to seek protection.
It is past time to provide them the respect they deserve, as well as the legal protections guaranteed by US and international law, particularly the 1951 Refugee Convention and its Protocol.
Every year on June 20, the United Nations observes World Refugee Day to recognize refugees worldwide and to celebrate the heroism of those who have been forced to depart their home countries to escape violence or persecution.