Dear John,
As this week draws to a close and migration levels globally and in the Americas reach record levels, WOLA would like to provide some context to what is really happening.
Above all we want to remind policymakers, the media, and the general public that most migrants currently arriving on U.S. soil are exercising their right to asylum as enshrined in the Refugee Convention, ratified by the U.S. in 1968, and the Refugee Act of 1980.
Many of them are fleeing authoritarian regimes in countries like Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua, while others are escaping crushing poverty, violence, and persecution in Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico, and elsewhere. And while many migrants are coming to the U.S., millions have also settled in countries throughout Latin America such as Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Mexico.
Tens of thousands of individuals and families who are escaping violence and persecution in Latin America and elsewhere have undertaken the treacherous journey to seek protection in the United States and the number of people in need is only likely to increase.
That is why WOLA is determined to continue to provide in-depth analysis, to advocate for a more humane U.S. asylum system that puts people at its core, and to provide resources to support asylum cases in the U.S.
Thank you for your support and your interest in our WOLA Weekly.
Best,
