In May 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced that the federal government would adopt a “zero-tolerance” policy in regards to unauthorized border crossing. This policy applies to anyone attempting to cross the border, even those seeking legal asylum, and has resulted in the separation of children from their families.
As practitioners of an authentic and dynamic Judaism, we must recognize that we are part of something larger than ourselves and apply our Jewish values in the world. That is why we strongly condemn this policy and the actions that have stemmed from it.
On June 13, USCJ was one of 27 Jewish institutions and organizations to co-sign a letter urging the Administration to rescind this policy. Since then, many of our congregants, clergy, and lay leaders have reached out, asking about actions they can take to help these families and asylum seekers. Below, you can find a list of resources and next steps.
Resources
- Join a protest, rally, or vigil on June 30 sponsored by the Families Belong Together movement. Find an event near you and print out a “Refugees Welcome” sign
- Send a letter to your elected officials to ask them to stand for the protection of asylum seekers. Just put in your name and contact information into this form and click “Send Your Letter”
- Volunteer locally with asylum seekers through HIAS (opportunities are primarily in the New York City and Washing D.C. areas)
- Organize a rally at your local Immigration and Customs Enforcement office. Find ICE locations here
- Donate to support HIAS in providing pro-bono legal representation to asylum seekers
For even more ways to take action, visit HIAS’s website.
Read original prayers written by USCJ-affiliated rabbis for immigrant families being separated at the border.
