How To Stand Up & Fight Back For Refugees

By Rachel Nusbaum, HIAS.org

UPDATE: The executive order issued on March 6 makes it more critical than ever that you raise your voice for refugees. We still have a long fight ahead, as the Supreme Court has announced that they will take up the challenge brought by HIAS and others in the fall. Please take action today.

Donald Trump has issued a number of executive orders targeting vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers, which means your voice of opposition is more critical than ever.

History has taught us the deadly consequences of slamming the doors of this country shut on people just because of who they are and where they are from. We must prevent this administration from repeating the mistakes of the past. Here’s how you can help:

  1. Use HIAS resources to educate and advocate. Check out the HIAS guide on "How To Talk About Refugees With Your Family and Friends." For more, visit the HIAS resource page.
  2. Write to your member of congress. In the coming weeks, our government will determine the maximum number of refugees allowed to come to this country in the next year, and we need their help to make sure this number is at least 75,000.  
  3. Print one of our signs or banners to show your support for refugees. Display a supportive message proudly at public events, in your place of worship or wherever you see appropriate.
  4. Organize! Bring a group to an in-district meeting, or attend a town hall during a congressional recess and ask your representative to commit to welcoming refugees. 
  5. Amplify the 2,000 rabbis who have signed this letter in support of welcome.
  6. Show there is grassroots support for refugees in your area. Add your community or congregation to the 360+ members of the HIAS Welcome Campaign.
  7. Make a donation to support our work protecting and welcoming refugees and asylum seekers. Click here to donate.
  8. Get emails from HIAS letting you know about actions you can take in real time. Sign-up here.

Our tradition of welcoming refugees as new Americans is one of the things that has made America great. It is a tradition worth fighting for, and we intend to do so. Join us.

Search HIAS