Dear Friend,
Every person deserves to live in safety and peace, free from detention and deportation. As a Quaker organization, AFSC believes in the divine worth of every person. This calls us to act for justice alongside immigrants, allies, and communities. Together, we believe we can create a more welcoming, dignified, and just world for all. Thank you for all you do to support this work.
One example of how community coming together can make a difference is the Miramar Circle of Protection. Every day, immigrants from all over the world come to Miramar, Florida, to meet with ICE officials. Some are seeking safety and refuge in the U.S. after fleeing violence, persecution, or natural disasters. Others have lived in the U.S. for decades and have built families and lives here.
In 2017, community partners formed the Miramar Circle of Protection to provide immigrants there with mutual aid and resources. Together, we share Know Your Rights information, referrals to support hotlines and legal aid services, and more.
Just a few years ago, there were no restrooms, no shade, and no support for immigrants at Miramar. Immigrants were forced to stand in long lines outside for hours in the blistering Florida heat. It wasn’t uncommon for people to faint while waiting. Today that has changed. Thanks to advocacy by the Miramar Circle of Protection, a shade structure, fans, and air-conditioned restrooms have all been installed.
AFSC staff and volunteers go beyond meeting physical and legal needs. They also provide community and compassion. In this difficult time, so much public discourse and policy seems to be shaped by fear and violence. Offering this care and dignity is a way of demonstrating the world that we’re working toward.
Immigrants make our communities stronger, and we can all play a role in creating a more welcoming and just world. Thank you for being a part of our AFSC community and for all the ways you support our efforts.
In solidarity,
