Alexandria, Va. – Islamic Relief USA, a nonprofit humanitarian and advocacy organization, issues the following statement regarding Congress’s inaction on the proposed Afghan Adjustment Act.
“The brave men and women of Afghanistan who escaped a dark environment of repression, persecution, and precariousness deserve a path for legal residency in the United States. The Afghan Adjustment Act does just that and Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA) strongly supports it.
“We are disappointed that Congress has not given this legislation more serious consideration. The act is a reasonable, common-sense, and provides a moral solution to a long-standing problem. Parolees, many of whom are already in some of the most vulnerable conditions, deserve the opportunity to become lawful permanent residents of the United States. They should be able to have access to privileges similar to that of refugees or those with special visas.
“While we’re pleased that Congress is considering extending the SIV program as part of its spending plan negotiations, similar consideration and action should be taken regarding the Afghan Adjustment Act. There’s precedent for the United States making exceptions for populations from other nations, such as those from Cuba.
“From our experience working with this population, they are ready to contribute to the economy. Many of them are working in critical sectors of the U.S. economy and making significant contributions to local communities and culture. They join hundreds of thousands of Afghan Americans who have been integral members of our communities for decades and who have made significant contributions to U.S. public life.
“It is long overdue for the Congress to recognize that parolees from Afghanistan deserve the opportunity for a brighter future. They should pass the Afghan Adjustment Act as soon as possible.”
MEDIA CONTACT
Syed M. Hassan
media@irusa.org or
(571) 421-7032 (CELL)
XXX
Islamic Relief USA, based in Alexandria, Va., is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) humanitarian organization. Its mission is to provide relief and development in a dignified manner regardless of gender, race, or religion, and works to empower individuals in their communities and give them a voice in the world. Its programs benefit millions of people each year in more than 40 countries around the world, including in the United States.
Islamic Relief USA meets all of the Standards for Charity Accountability of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, a national charity monitoring group affiliated with the Better Business Bureau system. Islamic Relief USA is on the U.S. government’s Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) charity list, and it is also a signatory to the code of conduct of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.