JFI Colleagues,
In these unprecedented times USCCB/MRS and JFI are continuing to work to protect immigrants and other vulnerable members of our communities. Given the extreme public health concerns related to COVID-19 and the heightened vulnerability of immigrants at this time, we wanted to update you on this important issue.
What We Are Doing:
With Congress and the Trump Administration, USCCB/MRS has advocated for four main immigration COVID-19 related issues:
(1) Access to Health Care for All Regardless of Status.
(2) Ending All Enforcement Around Sensitive Locations Such as Hospitals and Clinics.
(3) Suspension of the Implementation of "Public Charge" During this Time.
(4) Regarding USCIS Office Closures, Extension for Certain Visa Categories, Including DACA Renewals, Given Substantial Impact Office Closures Could Pose.
Regarding these important issues we have been and will continue to engage Congress and the Trump Administration to ensure that immigration-related protections are robust and that any information generated is widely disseminated.
Read our
letter to DHS in partnership with Catholic Charities USA, Catholic Health Association, and CLINIC.
Stay Informed about Updates from U.S. Citizenship and Integration Services (
USCIS).
What You Can Do:
(1) Educate Yourself about Immigration-Related COVID 19 Updates and Share Them Widely - We recommend that you continually check the USCIS page and share information only from trusted sources such as JFI and CLINIC with partners and allies.
(2) Pray for Those Affected by COVID 19 - Please see USCCB President Archbishop Jose Gomez reflection and prayer on COVID-19.
(3) Inform Us If You See Enforcement Occurring in Your Community -
If you encounter immigration enforcement affecting public health occurring in your community, parish or diocese, please let us know ASAP so that we can assist you in federal and local level advocacy, please email
[email protected]. Our staff is teleworking but we will be responsive to your important email request.
Thank you for your solidarity at this time. We are united in our commitment to ensure safety, dignity and access to care for all, regardless of immigration status.
In Solidarity,
Tony Cube
