Episcopal Church Refuses Trump Request to Resettle white South African Refugees
The Episcopal Church’s migration service has made a bold decision to refuse the Trump administration’s request to assist in resettling dozens of White South Africans who have been granted refugee status by the federal government. This announcement, made by Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe, comes as a result of the church’s commitment to racial justice and reconciliation, as well as its historic ties with the Anglican Church of Southern Africa.
The Episcopal Migration Ministries will be terminating its partnership with the government, despite the arrival of 59 South Africans in the United States. Rowe stated that the church cannot support the government’s request to resettle the South African citizens due to their preferential treatment over others in need. He expressed his disappointment in watching one group of refugees receive special treatment while others who have been waiting in refugee camps for years are overlooked.
Rowe also highlighted the plight of refugees who have faced religious persecution and those who have served alongside the military in Iraq and Afghanistan, only to be denied refuge in recent months. The decision to refuse assistance to White South Africans comes after President Donald Trump fast-tracked refugee status for them, citing discrimination by the South African government and criticizing the land expropriation bill.
The Trump administration has been vocal in its support for White South Africans, accusing the South African government of discriminatory practices. However, the Episcopal Church’s stance has raised questions about its commitment to humanitarian aid, according to a spokesperson from the White House.
Despite the split with the government, the Episcopal Church plans to find other ways to support refugees in need. Meanwhile, Church World Service, another faith-based agency that assists refugees, has reiterated its commitment to serving eligible refugees and called on Congress and the Trump administration to prioritize refugee families who are in grave danger.
The decision to refuse the government’s request highlights the complexities of refugee resettlement and the need for a more comprehensive and compassionate approach to addressing the needs of refugees worldwide. The Episcopal Church’s decision to stand firm in its commitment to racial justice and reconciliation serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding these values in all aspects of humanitarian aid and refugee assistance.
