The IRC laments the passage of HR 4038 bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. It looks to the Senate to uphold the best principles and practice of American leadership in refugee resettlement.

The bill would overturn a system that is working.  It compromises the lives of people who are already some of the most victimized people in the world.  It would set back U.S. humanitarian leadership and provide an excuse for those who wish to argue that the U.S. does not live up to the values it proclaims. 

Every day the IRC helps those around the world seeking refuge and those who arrive in the U.S. as refugees.  These people are desperate for a new start in life, and grateful for the chance to build a new place called home.  Those arriving in the U.S. have been through an extensive security vetting system involving many government agencies. Many become patriotic US citizens who know the value of the liberties that this country offers. 

Refugee resettlement is a U.S .success story. It is also a bipartisan success story.  We are proud to work on a daily basis with politicians of all parties at state and local level, and officials who serve the public, to ensure that the U.S. safely provides sanctuary to the world’s most vulnerable. We fervently hope that, as the Senate considers this matter, America’s leaders will recover the spirit of practical cooperation to meet the needs of refugees for a safe home and of Americans for safety. Far from being conflict, these goals are in harmony.