SAN DIEGO -- Leaders from across San Diego County strongly condemn President Trump’s executive orders to shut out immigrants and refugees with policies and walls that divide us rather than bring us together.
As a result of the president’s actions, refugees, who are mostly women and children fleeing war and violence and who have already been vetted, now stand in harm’s way. Immigrants and visa applicants from entire countries are now blocked based on nothing more than the geography of their birth, harkening back to discriminatory immigration policies of the past. In addition, southern border communities that lack resources and infrastructure are now facing the prospects of an expanded border wall that does nothing to revitalize their communities.
The San Diego Immigrant Rights Consortium, a coalition of over 40 organizations fighting for immigrant and refugee rights, is outraged that the Trump Administration would take steps to undermine our country’s most fundamental values of compassion and inclusion.
See below for statements from immigrant and refugee leaders across San Diego County:
Ginger Jacobs, Chair, San Diego Immigrant Rights Consortium
“As a border region which is home to the largest refugee population in California,
San Diego has long thrived as a region due to the diverse cultures and people who call our county home. Refugees and immigrants are valued members of our community, and we condemn the president’s actions today.”
Hanif Mohebi, Executive Director, CAIR San Diego
“Such executive orders and laws will not improve our nation’s safety and security, rather it will reinforce fear, hate, and division within our country. Immigrants and refugees have become legislators, doctors, engineers, and businesspeople who positively contribute to what America is -- targeting them is misguided and against our country’s core values.”
Pedro Rios, Director, AFSC’s US-Mexico Border Program
“The president’s executive actions represent failed approaches that have been attempted in the past and only serve to alienate and demonize members of our communities. A president’s duty is to unify our country, not divide it. His actions will cause irreparable harm to many individuals and families seeking shelter, as well as all residents who reside here on the border.”
Pastor Bill Jenkins, Director, Christ Ministry Center
“As a person of faith, I have a moral obligation to welcome and protect immigrants and refugees, and help those in need. The president’s lack of moral grounding and basic respect for the dignity of all humankind with today’s executive orders is troubling for all residents, particularly for those of us who live in the border region. We call upon our leaders to reject such discriminatory actions and to welcome those who come to this country.”