CCUSA opposes executive order to suspend entry of certain immigrants

Migrants and Refugees

April 23, 2020

Alexandria, Va. — Sister Donna Markham OP, PhD, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) opposed yesterday’s executive order forbidding certain immigrants from entering the United States calling it inconsistent with our faith tradition and our longstanding practice of welcoming refugees and migrants to our country.

“While we understand the desire to protect people from further exposure to the COVID-19 virus, we should not sacrifice our humanity in our willingness to welcome others. We are a nation of immigrants. Many families in our communities await the arrival of their loved ones. The executive order unnecessarily disrupts migrant communities at a time when many immigration processes are already suspended and many families are sheltering in place to slow the spread of COVID-19. The order will do little to combat a global pandemic that is present within our borders.

“Working with immigrant communities is a core part of our ministry, and we take great pride in the programs and services we provide them. Our faith calls us to seek justice for newcomers and we will continue to press Congress and the Administration on their behalf to ensure they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”