CCUSA dismayed over suspension of refugee resettlement program

Migrants and Refugees

January 28, 2017

Alexandria, Va. – Sister Donna Markham OP, PhD, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) expressed her concern for the vulnerable people who are fleeing from extreme danger and who are now caught without hope of protection in light of President Trump’s decision to suspend the country’s refugee program.

“I am especially worried about the innocent children and mothers who have fled for their lives without support and are now caught in this regrettable and terribly frightening situation,” Sister Donna said. “While I certainly appreciate the importance of vetting to insure the safety of our country, I also believe we must treat those who are most vulnerable with compassion and mercy and with hearts willing to be opened wide in the face of dire human need.”

The basis for all Catholic Charities’ activity is the dignity of the human person. As part of one human family, we bear the responsibility to help one another in times of need, especially in times that potentially can lead to the loss of life. Women and children are among those most vulnerable.

The Catholic Church in the United States has always assisted refugees and migrants coming to our country, regardless of their country of origin. At the same time, the US has historically opposed those leaders who oppressed or tortured their citizens. How can we now justify closing our borders to their innocent victims?

Catholic Charities will continue to advocate on behalf of people who are poor and marginalized, of all faiths, as our agencies continue to provide them with service, compassion and care.