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In the days since the New Orleans attack, the rhetoric of blame and hatred has grown. A group of faith leaders have issued the following statement – not just about the attack, but about our response to it. It’s clear we have work to do as a community.
Today marks a significant moment for migrants, refugees, and asylum-seekers in the United States as the white supremacist and Trump-era policy, Title 42, finally comes to an end. The Louisiana Organization for Immigrants and Refugees (LORI) welcomes the news and recognizes the three years of advocacy and legal battles that led to this momentous decision.
As Marcela Hernandez, Program and Organizing Manager at LORI, stated, “Today, as we celebrate the end of Title 42, a policy that violated human rights, enforced selfishness, hate and injustice, I remind you that the ultimate goal is far from over. We have to continue moving forward and create humane policies that protect those in the most vulnerable situations. Let’s continue working together to evoke a sense of urgency to protect and promote equal opportunities for all.”
Title 42 was introduced in March 2020 under the guise of a public health measure in response to Covid-19, but it allowed for the rapid expulsion of more than 2 million asylum seekers without due process. UndocuBlack and partner organizations have consistently raised concerns over the illegality and immorality of Title 42. From its inception, it was clear that the policy was not motivated by a concern for public health but rather a political play to continue to keep Black and Brown asylum seekers out of the country. As evidenced by the over 200 deportation flights sent to Haiti, this deadly policy was successful in its intent, with a disproportionate impact on Black migrants.
LORI recognizes the importance of protecting public health during a global pandemic. However, it is essential to uphold the values of this nation and not compromise the rights and dignity of vulnerable people seeking refuge. Title 42 denied fundamental human rights to those in need, causing immense harm and suffering to countless families and individuals seeking protection in the United States. As we face the worst displacement crisis since World War II, the United States must create safe and equitable pathways for families and individuals seeking protection.
The House Republican Border Package was recently passed but fails to address the underlying issues of immigration and border security. Extending Title 42 disregards asylum seekers’ rights, and the emphasis on increased funding for enforcement and physical barriers overlooks the need for comprehensive immigration reform.
Sharon Njie, a Refugee Congress Louisiana Delegate and LORI’s Communications and Strategic Partnership Director, recognizes the significance of the end of Title 42 but raises concerns about the emergence of other hardline policies that deny asylum seekers the right to safety. She states, “The end of T42 might be the end of an era, to be celebrated yet another hardline policy that denies asylum seekers the right to safety arises. This is bothersome and contrary to promises made by the Biden administration.” It is crucial to recognize that while the end of Title 42 is a cause for celebration, much work is to be done to create change and humane policies that protect and promote equal opportunities for all.
“LORI urges the Biden Administration to uphold its humanitarian obligations and work towards creating a fair and just immigration system that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals, irrespective of their race or ethnicity. We call on the government to prioritize humanitarian aid, legal resources, and diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of migration and uphold human rights The end of Title 42 is a step in the right direction, but we must also ensure that any alternative policy is humane and consistent with our nation’s values.” Dauda Sesay, Founder, and Executive Director of LORI.
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