I have started this blog over and over again, trying to put words to the ache in my chest, trying to weave together hope and righteous anger into something coherent, something that won’t unravel the moment I hit “post.” In the last two days, many of my compassionate, justice-seeking colleagues have received furlough notices. To say the last two days …
Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Migrants: What’s The Difference?
February 4, 2025
More than 120 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes in search of safe, new lives. Every day, thousands are forced to make this difficult decision, leaving behind their belongings, memories and, oftentimes, loved ones, all for the hope of a better future. There are many reasons people choose to make this decision. Millions are …
Hope Amid Destruction: How the Wildfire Resource Hub Supports Displaced Families
CWS continues to play a crucial role in California’s wildfire recovery by helping establish the Wildfire Resource Hub, which provides a wide array of services, from emergency aid to long-term recovery support. With a focus on both immediate relief and emotional care, the Hub serves as a vital resource for those affected by the fires. A Vital Support Hub for …
From Tanzania to Tennessee: Reflecting on a Family’s Resettlement Journey in Light of New Executive Orders
Mariana Gama | January 30, 2025
After fleeing violence in Congo, Hoga and his family endured decades of uncertainty in Tanzania’s Nyarugusu Refugee Camp. Twenty years later, they were finally granted refuge in Tennessee and faced the daunting transition to a new life, filled with both hope and anticipation. Now, the same resettlement pathway that gave them a future is under suspension, leaving thousands of refugees …
How You Can Take Action in Support of Refugees and Asylum Seekers Now
January 22, 2025
In the first days of the Trump-Vance administration, Donald Trump signed a number of Executive Orders that eliminate legal pathways for those seeking safety, including banning access to asylum and other legal protections at the U.S.-Mexico border, suspending humanitarian parole programs and canceling scheduled appointments for nearly 30,000 migrants and indefinitely suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. As these pathways …
Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy: A Black History Month Reflection
January 18, 2025
Black History Month—and, in particular, Martin Luther King Jr. Day—holds profound significance for Black immigrants, serving as both a reflection on justice and a call to action. Inspired by Dr. King’s legacy, immigrants can honor his dream by advocating for equality, engaging in service, sharing their stories and standing in solidarity to create a more just and inclusive future. Martin …
Family and the Power of Support
December 19, 2024
Through the hardships of war, the loss of loved ones and the challenges of resettling in a new country, the finds hope and healing through community support, resilience and love. My parents, may Allah have mercy on them, were the foundation of my strength and optimism. My father always encouraged us to help others, often saying: “Life is like a …
Upholding Humanitarian Leadership: Priorities for Funding Refugee Support in 2025
December 18, 2024
As the new administration prepares to take office, Congress has an important role to play in setting a clear vision and upholding the United States’ long legacy of welcoming refugee newcomers and others fleeing violence and persecution. The final work period of the 118th Congress, known as the “Lame Duck Session,” is the last opportunity for current leaders to pass …
Visiting the Darien Gap: A Look Beyond the Border
Abbey Combs |
Trigger warning: This article mentions instances of sexual and gender-based violence. As our bus made its way deeper into the jungle, now seven hours from Panama City, I looked out the window to see an archway welcoming us to the Darién. It was November 12, 2024, just days after U.S. election results were announced. I was traveling with faith leaders …
A Journey to Mutual Learning: Stories of Resilience in Latin America
Monica Arango | December 13, 2024
When Jorge was just a child, he suffered an accident in the midst of a hurricane and lost his hearing. Over time, he adapted to his new life, and years later, formed a beautiful family. Unfortunately, in November 2020, Hurricanes Eta and Iota destroyed the house where he lived with his wife and two-year-old-baby in Honduras. His dreams seemed to …