In the wake of the terror attacks in Paris several U.S. governors have declared that they will not permit Syrian refugees to enter their states. The U.S. Council of Catholic Bishops, along with Migration Refugee Services, have responded with an action plan they hope supporters will use to urge their government leaders to show a more compassionate response to those fleeing the war-torn region.
The “kit” has been distributed to key leaders, media relations staff and advocacy groups who sympathize with the plight of the refugees.
Included in the package is an Action Alert that calls on all Catholics to contact their congressional representatives as well as their governors to ask them to welcome Syrian refugees into the country. It includes an explanation of the screening process and security checks that are part of the refugee vetting process. The alert includes email address, phone numbers, websites and hashtags related to contacting local officials.
An 8-point list of Talking Points outlines clearly how to discuss, from a Catholic perspective, how displaced Syrian refugees should be welcomed.
A step-by-step explanation of the screening process for refugees dispels the idea that it is impossible to screen refugees whose backgrounds cannot be vetted. The 13-step process is outlined in detail and allows those discussing the subject to refute the notion that there is no process in place.
Finally, statements from Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Migration, from Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, Archbishop of Louisville, KY, and President, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops On Syrian Refugee Crisis, and from The Administrative Committee of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, provide inspiring messages of hope and support for Syrians coming into the country.