The English Skills Learning Center (ESLC) expresses deep disappointment with the recent executive actions restricting legal immigration pathways, including the suspension of the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), the elimination of birthright citizenship for certain children, new restrictions on asylum claims, the closure of the CBP One app, and the reinstatement of the "Remain in Mexico" policy. These decisions undermine the longstanding humanitarian and legal traditions that have strengthened the fabric of American communities for generations.
For decades, the United States has been a global leader in refugee resettlement, asylum protections, and pathways to citizenship. These programs have provided safety to those fleeing persecution. Contrary to claims made in the recent executive order, refugees undergo one of the most rigorous vetting processes of any immigrant group. The U.S. resettlement process is a testament to our nation's commitment to security and compassion, ensuring both safety for our communities and hope for those in need.
Recent years have already seen a steep decline in refugee admissions. In Fiscal Year 2016, the U.S. admitted nearly 85,000 refugees. By contrast, the Trump administration set the ceiling for Fiscal Year 2021 at just 15,000—the lowest in the program’s history—with actual admissions falling even further short. While numbers rebounded under the Biden administration, Fiscal Year 2024 still saw fewer admissions than the program's full capacity. Suspending the program now abandons political dissidents, religious minorities, and victims of war while also diminishing the global standing of the United States. Refugee resettlement has long been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy, strengthening alliances, increasing stability, and showcasing our commitment to human rights.
The elimination of birthright citizenship, restrictions on asylum claims, and the closure of the CBP One app further erode legal avenues for those seeking safety and stability. Birthright citizenship, enshrined in the 14th Amendment, has allowed generations of children to fully integrate into American society. The CBP One app provided an orderly process for asylum seekers, and policies that allowed individuals to await their hearings within the U.S. upheld due process and humane treatment. These new restrictions will only create further uncertainty and hardship for individuals and families.
At the ESLC, we know that diverse, integrated communities are strong communities—but true integration is a two-way street. New Americans are eager to contribute, but their success depends on communities that welcome and engage with them. Mutual integration happens when all members of a community—both those born here and those newly arrived—learn, grow, and build relationships together. When policies block pathways to belonging, they don’t just harm immigrants and refugees; they deprive our neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools of the richness that comes from inclusion and belonging.
Refugees and immigrants strengthen America—not just socially, but economically and strategically. They start businesses at higher rates than U.S.-born citizens, revitalize industries facing labor shortages, and contribute to innovations that keep America competitive. Historically, immigrants and refugees have played a key role in strengthening the workforce and upholding American values of resilience and self-sufficiency. In addition, immigrants commit crimes at significantly lower rates than American-born individuals. An "America First" approach should recognize that welcoming and integrating newcomers is an investment in our nation's future.
We urge the administration to reverse these decisions and reinstate policies that support mutual integration, strengthen communities, and honor America’s values of opportunity and inclusion. We stand with our learners, our partners, and our welcoming community in working toward a future where every person has the chance to belong and succeed.
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