To the Conference Committee on Immigration Reform, US Congress:
We call on you as members of the Conference Committee to protect refugees and asylum seekers.
Immigration reform must not contain any measure that criminalizes refugees because they were forced to flee with false documents or sends them to prison for seeking safety. This legislation must not make refugees ineligible for immigration relief on the basis of visa irregularities. Refugees must not fear that they might be returned to certain danger in the hands of their persecutors.
[Your comment]
Any final legislation must:
- Provide enforcement that keeps Americans safe without jeopardizing our tradition of offering refuge for people fleeing persecution
- Preserve mechanisms for refugees to reunite with their families
- Prevent humanitarian workers from being punished for helping those in need
- Provide a path to legal residency for so many people living in the shadows
Please preserve and defend America's proud history and longstanding commitment to providing safe haven for people fleeing persecution.
All of us who have signed this petition believe that refugees face real danger and deserve sanctuary.
Signed by:
[Your name]
[Your address]