Immigration & Refugees
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"We stress that all persons, regardless of migratory status, are rights holders whose protection is a moral imperative. The integrity of the family and the rights of children and spouses of migrants merit prominent consideration."
~~ Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd 2018 Position Papers To read or print the entire Migration Position Paper, click here. To read or print the Congregation's complete series of Position Papers, click here. For more background on on the Good Shepherd 2018 Position Papers and to access them in Spanish, French or English, visit the Congregation's site. |
“Dear God, what are we doing in this world and why are we here, if not to contribute to the well-being of our neighbors.” |
The National Advocacy Center remains committed to working for just and comprehensive immigration reform to better the lives of those seeking refuge or opportunities in our nation.
In a globalized world, people cross borders, temporarily or permanently, for many reasons. Where populations are mired in conditions of poverty, where environmental conditions are not sustainable, or where conflict immerses civilian population in constant violence or virtual dictatorship, people move for both freedom and survival, seeking better social and economic opportunities.
Movement across borders is a perilous journey for those who must separate from families, who cannot acquire legal documents, have documents taken from them, cannot communicate in a new language, or lack education and employment skills. Their situation leaves them vulnerable to being exploited by traffickers and smugglers, even by legally recognized recruiters. Women are increasingly among the vulnerable populations of people migrating. NAC is a core member of the Justice for Immigrants Campaign and actively participates in developing strategy, sponsoring Congressional briefings, scheduling appointments with legislative staff, and making legislative visits. NAC is also a member of the Interfaith Immigration Coalition (IIC), participating with members in other faith traditions to lobby for compassionate and comprehensive immigration reform and address root causes of migration. NAC joins with IIC in legislative visits and in meetings with senior White House staff. Resources
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Ciudad Juárez Fire"We pray for those lost in the horrific fire in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. We pray also for the survivors and desperate family members who have given and survived so much.
"And while we pray, our thoughts turn to the ghastly circumstances of the fire. How could it be that officials and employees refused to unlock the cell doors of the Mexican government migration detention facility? This international incident requires a prompt and thorough investigation and appropriate, swift action." ~ Fran Eskin-Royer, Executive Director 
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Haitian Migrants & the Del Rio Disaster
Rallying in Solidarity with Haitian Migrants
NAC Exec Director Fran Eskin-Royer and Sr. Claudia Palacio, RGS,rallied, prayed and marched in solidarity with Haitian migrants to commemorate the one year anniversary of the thousands of Haitian migrants who were rounded up under a bridge in Del Rio, Texas.
At the vigil, 15 bags containing water bottles and to-go containers symbolized the more than 15,000 Haitians who disappeared within days from Del Rio (most were either deported back to Haiti or placed in immigration proceedings). At the vigil, Fran read a prayer for Haitian migrants written by NAC Policy Advocate Leslye Colvin. We call for change, including a restoration of asylum, equity in processing at the border and an end to Title 42 and other policies that disproportionately harm migrants of color. The DC vigil began outside the Custom and Border Patrol Headquarters. Then participants marched to Lafayette Park near the White House where the vigil concluded. 
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Prayer for Haitian Migrants
Great Creator of love and mercy
We humbly stand before you In solidarity with the people of Haiti. Not only are your Haitian children our neighbors, first and foremost they are our brothers and sisters created like us in your image. Great Source of refuge and justice For too long their demand for dignity has been ignored by the leaders of our government and the people of our nation Who are we to deny their cry for justice? There is no moral or valid reason to ignore their pleas. Great Spirit of breath and life We lament the events at Del Rio – that we commemorate today. They were another grave act of injustice – another burden of inhumanity placed upon their shoulders – another self-inflicted wound to our collective soul. God of many names Thank you for the witness of our Haitian brothers and sisters. As we journey with them towards justice, guide our steps and form our words That our efforts may bear fruit that is just. We ask this in all the Holy Names of God. Amen. |