Policy Statements

CWS Strongly Opposes H.R. 4731, “The Refugee Program Integrity Restoration Act of 2016”

March 15, 2016

As a 70-year old humanitarian organization representing 37 Protestant, Anglican and Orthodox communions and 33 refugee resettlement offices across the United States, Church World Service (CWS) urges members of the House Judiciary Committee to oppose H.R. 4731, The Refugee Program Integrity Restoration Act. Refugee resettlement is a longstanding, life-saving American tradition that has recently become unjustly maligned and politicized. In …

Religious community’s statement on the Supreme Court’s decision to stay the Clean Power Plan

February 18, 2016

We are disappointed by last week’s 5-4 Supreme Court decision to stay the implementation of the Clean Power Plan. As religious organizations, we are deeply concerned with protecting the health and well-being of vulnerable communities and God’s Creation. The Clean Power Plan was designed to allow states the greatest flexibility in implementation, while benefiting the health of all peoples by …

CWS applauds Senate vote blocking anti-immigrant legislation

October 20, 2015

WASHINGTON – Church World Service and its 37 member denominations and communions applaud the Senate’s vote against S. 2146, The “Stop Sanctuary Policies and Protect Americans Act”. Alongside dozens of religious, municipal and law enforcement groups, CWS opposed the legislation, citing concerns that it would punish localities for using proven community policing methods, criminalize immigrants, and promote racial profiling. “S. …

CWS Statement in Opposition to Proposals that would Dismantle Trust Between Local Police and Communities

July 14, 2015

In the aftermath of the recent tragedy in San Francisco, Church World Service mourns with the family and community of Kathryn Steinle as they experience a tremendous loss. We are praying for peace and an end to senseless acts of violence that are too prevalent in this country. CWS urges all Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives …

Praying for Healing: Faith Community Call for Solidarity with San Francisco

July 9, 2015

Last week, the life of Kathryn Steinle was tragically cut short by a senseless act of gun violence. Today, as united members of the faith community, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Kathryn’s family and friends. We join the broader San Francisco community as we grieve, and pray for peace and healing for all who are impacted by this tragedy. …