It happens; every now and then, I feel compelled to write about something that walks the line of being political. Yes, I do have my masters in public administration. I do feel well informed about policy, but typically, if I’m writing about current “political news,” it is because I am seeing our most vulnerable populations mistreated. Please consider this information through the lens of social justice.
Note that I’m not writing to irritate Democrats or Republicans. This isn’t about which way you vote. This is about being human and wanting to see humans treated with compassion.
So, here it is. If you’re not interested, then don’t read it.
A personal refugee story
A friend of mine came to the US in the 1990s as a refugee. He’s a wonderful man who gives back to his community and, if you must know, dutifully pays his taxes. When he tells me about his childhood, it is extremely different from my own. He lived in the “blackout” country of Eritrea in Africa. He shared with me that as a child, he remembers times when war would break out in the streets near their home. They would flee to caves and hide, listening to the sound of explosions and gunfire.
I asked him, โWhat do parents do? If they have children, do they try to get their kids out of Eritrea?โ
I was told this, โYes, some people do. They pay for a smuggler. They smuggle to Egypt and from Egypt to Israel. But there are bad spots, such as Sudan. Desert you must cross. And there people are killed. Harvested for their organs.โ
Refugees are not looking for some vacation getaway. They are looking to survive.
President Trump’s Recent Decision on Afghan Refugees: A Humanitarian Setback
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the humanitarian community, President Donald Trump has canceled flights for approximately 1,660 Afghan refugees who the U.S. government previously cleared for resettlement.ย This decision, coming just days after Trump’s inauguration, has left many vulnerable individuals and families in a precarious situation.
The Affected Groups
The cancellation affects a diverse group of Afghan refugees, including:
- Family members of active-duty U.S. military personnel
- Unaccompanied minors flying to the U.S. to reunite with family
- Those who fought alongside U.S. forces for the former Afghan government
This action has effectively stranded these individuals in Afghanistan or neighboring countries, where many face potential persecution and danger.
Humanitarian Concerns
The decision to halt these flights raises serious humanitarian concerns. These refugees have already undergone extensive vetting processes and were deemed eligible for resettlement in the United States.ย By canceling their flights, the administration is breaking promises to these individuals and potentially risking their lives.
Impact on U.S. Military Families
Perhaps most troubling is the impact on U.S. military families. By preventing family members of active-duty personnel from joining their loved ones in the U.S., this decision places an unnecessary emotional burden on those who serve our country.ย It sends a disheartening message about the value we place on military service and family unity.
Unaccompanied Minors Left in Limbo
The cancellation of flights for unaccompanied minors is particularly concerning. These children, already separated from their families, now face extended periods of uncertainty and potential danger.ย This action seems to contradict the very principles of child welfare and family reunification that the U.S. has long championed.
A Betrayal of Allies
For those who fought alongside U.S. forces, this decision represents a betrayal of trust. These individuals risked their lives to support American objectives and now find themselves abandoned by the very nation they served.ย This endangers these individuals and potentially damages future cooperation and trust in U.S. military operations abroad.
As we move forward, it is crucial that we, as a nation, reflect on our values and commitments. We must ask ourselves: Is this truly who we want to be? A country that turns its back on children, allies, and the families of those who serve us? Or can we strive to be better, honor our commitments, and extend a helping hand to those in need? The answer to these questions will define not just our foreign policy but our national character for years to come.