The United States ushers in new approach to people seeking safety

Within days of his inauguration as the 46th President of the United States, President Biden signed an Executive Order reversing two of former President Trump’s signature policies and ushering in a new era of immigration to the United States. After four years, the so-called Muslim and African bans were overturned and the country signalled its renewed commitment to welcoming migrants from the affected regions. The Executive Order lifted these bans implemented by the Trump administration and communicated to the rest of the world that the US is prepared for a more humane and inclusive approach.

In addition to ending the discriminatory travel bans, which had devastating effects in the US and around the world, the administration paused most deportations for President Biden’s first 100 days and outlined policy proposals that stress legalization of undocumented people. Unlike his predecessors who waited until later in their terms to advance an agenda on immigration, President Biden introduced his policies within the first week, signalling a new level of commitment to the issue.

Trust grantee the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) spent the past four years fighting the Trump Administration’s anti-immigrant, anti-refugee and xenophobic policies. Since day one of the administration, IRAP mobilized to fight the administration’s Muslim ban, which was only the first of numerous policies aimed at keeping refugees, asylum-seekers and immigrants out of the country. Through grassroots legal mobilization, strategic litigation efforts, and advocacy in partnership with allies and community partners, IRAP challenged the policies and helped identify legal pathways to safety in the U.S. and elsewhere. Alongside partners in the U.S. and around the world, IRAP continues its commitment to combatting anti-immigrant policies and advocating for solutions for refugees and other people in need of a safe place to call home.

The new administration brings fresh hope and opportunity for thousands of displaced people seeking safety in the United States and demonstrates leadership to other countries around the world. But the work is not yet done. IRAP will continue to help ensure the Biden administration creates and upholds just and equitable approaches to people seeking safety.