Ensuring incarcerated people and their loved ones can stay connected: People in prisons, jails, and detention centers have long had to pay unjust phone rates to communicate with loved ones. These high costs have serious impacts—making it harder for people to speak with their families as well as legal counsel. This week, AFSC and dozens of organizations called on Congress to pass legislation to finally end these predatory rates. Read the press release and letter to Congress.
Flying migrants to Martha’s Vineyard is ‘another form of family separation’: Advocates spoke out against political stunts by governors who have sent migrants to cities around the United States. Many migrants face danger on their journey, only to be met with animosity once they reach the U.S., says AFSC’s Pedro Rios. “All local and state jurisdictions have the obligation to welcome migrants and asylum seekers with measures that uplift their dignity, that prioritize their emotional, mental, and physical integrity.” (Business Insider)
Tell Congress: Fund the government—without harming people or the planet: Thank you to everyone who contacted Congress this week to pass a stopgap measure to ensure continued funding for the federal government and meet human needs. Elected officials must also say NO to more taxpayer dollars for fossil fuel projects, weapons of war, and other things that harm community members. If you haven’t already, take action today!
Community leaders call on Biden administration to expand Temporary Protected Status: Earlier this week, AFSC joined with partners and community members in South Florida to highlight humanitarian crises in Central America. They urged the Biden administration to expand TPS to protect from deportation people from Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. (NBC 10)
Throughout the year, supporters like you make possible our work for a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future. Our fiscal year ends Sept. 30—and we are preparing for the challenges ahead. If you have the means, please make a gift to help fund our worldwide work in the year ahead.
