The Trump administration has instituted an inhumane and xenophobic travel ban, dividing families, endangering the lives of those seeking safety in the U.S., and forsaking our nation’s humanitarian legacy. The President claims he selected certain nations around the world because they have a “large-scale presence of terrorists,” when in reality, the individuals seeking to leave these nations are doing so to save their lives and their families.
The International Institute of New England condemns the actions of this administration as it continues to dismantle legal pathways to immigration and villainize innocent individuals and families seeking safety and stability.
More than 90% of IINE’s current clients come from nations included in the travel ban, particularly Haiti and Afghanistan. These immigrants have endured rigorous vetting and screening, long journeys, and unimaginable trauma to find peace and safety in the U.S. In turning our backs on vulnerable individuals, we cause irreparable human harm and hurt U.S. communities – who rely heavily on their talent and economic and cultural contributions.
Talent like Efdjeen, who was forced to leave her home in Haiti, where she was completing her residency after graduating from medical school. Efdjeen always aspired to become a doctor, and last year, she graduated from IINE’s Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, bringing her one step closer to her goal.
The ban also means separating families, who have already spent years apart and want nothing more than to be reunited.
Many from the countries banned are our friends, neighbors, and in the case of Afghanistan, brothers and sisters in arms. When the Taliban took control of Kabul, Sabira and her husband had to flee because of his past work supporting the U.S. Armed Forces; now, they are in Massachusetts alone, dreaming of the day when they will see their families again.
The devastation the travel ban will cause is immense. We hope the ban will be successfully challenged in court, and that the President’s unilateral decision-making will spur further action around the need for comprehensive immigration reform.
