An Open Letter from the Faith Communities of Rochester, NY

Dear President Trump,

As faith leaders of Rochester, New York, we stand together to “Welcome the Stranger” and unite our voices as you consider the Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions.

We implore you to raise the number of refugees that will be allowed into our country for next fiscal year to 75,000. Due to the global pandemic, refugees are even more vulnerable, as they live in overcrowded camps with minimal health care. We, as faith communities, are ready to welcome those in need by sharing our resources as we together respond to this global crisis. We especially request this increase in the number of refugees we allow into our country in light of the recent tragic events in Lebanon where over 1 million refugees were awaiting aid prior to these latest developments.

Rochester, NY has a robust structure for welcoming refugees that utilizes the excellent medical, educational and employment opportunities available in our city. This structure of services and agencies are fully supported by our faith communities as we give both of our time and money. We are ready to use these resources and services to bring hope to the lives of the refugees who will be resettled in our city.

Finally, we want to assure you that we are praying for you that you do not give in to fear due to the difficult recovery that is ahead of us. We’re praying that God will lead you to allow US citizens to generously open our doors to those in even greater need at this time.

Respectfully,