DHM logo.///Rapid Response 09/18/07
Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act

There are more than 4.2 million displaced persons in and around Iraq. Many have helped U.S. troops and are thus now targeted by insurgents. Although the United States has said it would admit at least 7,000 Iraqi refugees, it has only admitted 719 so far this year. Several Senators have come together to sponsor the Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act (S. 1651) which they hope to attach as an amendment to a Defense Authorization bill which may come up for a vote as soon as September 18. This act would:

  • Prioritize vulnerable Iraqi refugees who fear death by insurgents;
  • Provide expedited special immigrant visas for Iraqis who helped U.S. troops; and
  • Allow persecuted individuals to apply for refugee status from within Iraq, without having to go through the dangerous process of fleeing Iraq before being able to apply for resettlement.

Persons who support and persons who oppose the war in Iraq can both agree that vulnerable refugees and those who have helped our troops deserve our assistance. Please contact your Senators to urge them to support this humanitarian bill.

Please note: To be admitted to the United States, Iraqis must pass extended screening processes in addition to rigorous background checks and security procedures mandated for all refugees.

Thank you for your willingness to take action.

Rev. Jennifer Riggs,
Director of Refugee and Immigration Ministries
Disciples Home Missions
Telephone: (317) 713-2643 or toll-free (888) 346-2631