LIRS is one of the nation’s leading agencies of its kind. We resettle refugees, protect unaccompanied children, advocate for just treatment of asylum seekers, seek alternatives to immigration detention and stand for unity for families fractured by unfair laws. • An Introduction • Our Mission and Values
CURRENT ISSUES
Just and Humane Immigration Reform The U.S. immigration system is broken. With more than 10 million undocumented immigrants in the United States who are integral to our economic and cultural fabric, we need to protect their families, guard their rights, welcome them out of the shadows, and provide them a path to permanence. Read more and download sample advocacy letters.
New Sanctuary Movement The New Sanctuary Movement is a national immigrants' rights initiative by conscientious congregations responding to unjust deportations. A recent LIRS memo desribes the movement and addresses the legal liabilities of providing sanctuary to undocumented immigrants. Read more (PDF*).
Material Support Recently enacted laws have had unintended consequences for many refugees and asylum seekers. Meant to protect Americans from terrorists and their supporters, the laws are keeping vulnerable people from resettlement, permanent residency and family reunification. Read more.
Unaccompanied Children The Unaccompanied Alien Child Protection Act would ensure that unaccompanied children receive fair and humane treatment consistent with our nation’s values and responsibilities. Read more.
Other Opportunities Read more about LIRS's advocacy issues and how you can speak out for those whose voices have been muted by unjust policies and inhospitable attitudes.
Building Communities of Hope: 2007 Annual Report: PDF* Financial summary; full report
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