Venezuela continues to face an ongoing political and economic crises. Inflation, chronic food shortages, unemployment, and human rights violations all contribute to the worsening situation. As such, over 7 million people have been pushed to leave their home. The vast majority settled in neighboring Latin American countries, but thousands have made their way to America.
As local officials strive to meet the needs of these newcomers, they have asked for a policy change to let these people work. Employment for refugees is key for integration and economic stability. Including refugees and asylum seekers in national labor markets is increasingly being regarded as good practice, as it benefits both the refugees and the people who live beside them. Far from being dependent, refugees are often innovative entrepreneurs. They benefit the economy with small businesses while also filling needs in the labor market and adding to the tax base.
We applaud the Biden administration for granting temporary legal status to our Venezuelan neighbors. This quickly makes them eligible for employment and ultimately allows them and their communities to thrive.
Official Statement on the Detention of Refugees and Ongoing Community Violence
With another death in Minnesota and continued violence toward individuals and groups standing up for their communities, we acknowledge the profound fear and uncertainty people are feeling--not just locally, but across the country.
On top of this, there are reports that refugees invited and admitted to our country through the U.S. Refugee Admission Program are now being detained, meaning that our new friends and neighbors feel that fear most acutely.
Refugees have already fled violence and persecution once. They came here legally, seeking safety. In moments like these, we reaffirm our commitment to building communities where refugees and immigrants can live without fear. Where they can go to work, send their children to school, and build lives of dignity and belonging.
We call for due process, accountability, and humanity in all immigration enforcement operations. We call upon our leaders to demand the demilitarization of our neighborhoods and cities. And we call on all of us to continue the work of welcoming and protecting those who have been forcibly displaced from their homes.