As refugees and friends of refugees, we are also keenly aware of the challenges refugees face. We recognize the need for improved policies and services that will help them begin new lives in America.

The U.S. has a long history of assisting refugees, but Congress only codified this response in 1980. Policies, procedures and the roles of many government agencies were clarified back then, and we are living with these same protocols to this day. Unfortunately, the U.S. Refugee Admissions and Resettlement Program is antiquated and in need of urgent reform.

Over the past 30 years the program has become increasingly complex and multifaceted. Too often there is little coordination and information sharing between overseas actors and domestic resettlement agencies. This disconnect can inhibit proper planning and lead to poor resettlement outcomes.

The Refugee Protection Act of 2010 (S. 3113) was introduced by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Senator Carl Levin (D-MI) on March 15, 2010, marking the 30th anniversary of the Refugee Act of 1980. The bill seeks to ensure that refugees and asylum seekers with bona fide claims are protected. The Act will restore the United States as a beacon of hope for those who suffer persecution.

This legislation:

• Helps vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers find protection
• Makes the refugee and asylum process more timely and effective
• Would provide green cards to refugees upon arrival
• Calls for annual updates of the reception and placement grant

Please call our senators and your House representatives. Urge them to CO-SPONSOR the Refugee Protection Act of 2010 (S. 3113) and support adequate funding for the U.S. resettlement program.

The link below helps you find out who your representative is in the U.S. House of Representatives, and provides contact information:

www.vacatholic.org/legislation.htm

Our two U.S. Senators can be emailed from this site. You may telephone their D.C offices at:
Jim Webb (202)224-4024
Mark Warner (202)224-2023

What better time than World Refugee Day to raise our voices. Tell Congress people:
"I'm your constituent and I care about refugees. Please support adequate funding for the U.S. resettlement program and support passage of the Refugee Protection Act of 2010 (S. 3113)."

Tell your story of why you care about refugees. Lives are in the balance.