Post election, LCSNW’s mission-centered work is more vital than ever
At Lutheran Community Services Northwest (LCSNW), our support for vulnerable refugees and immigrants fleeing persecution is key to our mission. It is an essential part of what it means to “partner with individuals, families and communities for health, justice and hope.”
In the wake of the recent election, it’s become increasingly clear that the work of LCSNW — made possible by the generosity of our amazing supporters — is needed now more than ever. States that have historically welcomed and supported refugees and immigrants are expecting to see additional people seeking refuge. Washington and Oregon are high on these lists.
LCSNW also must plan for the likelihood of fewer federal resources for other vulnerable people we serve, whether foreign-born or native-born. This includes those experiencing mental health issues, family instability, and housing insecurity.
But there’s no question that refugees and immigrants face the most pressing challenges under a new presidential administration. Here are five principles that will guide LCSNW as we prepare for the next four years:
- We support the admission of refugees and immigrants who are thoroughly vetted and pose no security threat to our country. Last year, LCSNW resettled nearly 1,400 refugees from 27 countries. We provided legal assistance, mental health care, case management, housing and employment support, cultural orientation and citizenship classes to hundreds of additional immigrants.
- We believe the U.S. needs comprehensive immigration reform that provides a legal pathway for bona fide refugees and immigrants with legitimate asylum claims.
- Our commitment to welcoming new arrivals is unwavering, regardless of the ebbs and flows of U.S. politics and federal funding.
- Welcoming newcomers is both a moral duty and an economic necessity for the U.S.
- The strength and resilience of immigrants make our country a better place.
As we stand at another political crossroads, our country would do well to remember the words of former President Barack Obama: “We are and always will be a nation of immigrants. We were strangers once, too.”