The Bishop’s Ministry of Immigration, part of the Anglican Church, played a significant role in resettling nearly 110,000 individuals across the U.S.
Recently, despite ongoing discussions about inclusion, Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) announced that the U.S. government would not extend refugee resettlement assistance to white Africans, citing the church’s longstanding commitment to racial justice.
Sam Lowe, the bishop, explained that EMM has chosen to terminate its contract with the federal government instead of assisting South African farmers deemed refugees. This decision was communicated to fellow Anglican members in a letter.
“Jesus tells us to take care of the poor,” he emphasized, signaling the church’s moral stance. Lowe added that their choice is rooted in a historical relationship with the Church of England in South Africa, making it impossible to proceed under current terms. Consequently, EMM plans to refocus its efforts on supporting migrants through alternative means.
Anna Kelly, of the White House Deputy Press Bureau, expressed concerns regarding the Anglican Church’s decision to end its collaboration with the U.S. government, particularly regarding the resettlement of African refugees. She noted that it raises questions about the church’s commitment to humanitarian efforts.
Kelly also pointed out the dire situation faced by those fleeing persecution in South Africa, asserting that they deserve the same opportunities for resettlement as others who have arrived in the U.S. in previous years, a sentiment echoed by President Trump.
Shortly after EMM’s announcement, the first African family arrived at Dulles International Airport, welcomed by U.S. officials. The Department of State announced that it would consider resettlement for disadvantaged minorities from South Africa, specifically those who have experienced persecution.
This initiative stems from President Trump’s executive order, which sought to address government-sanctioned discrimination against those in South Africa by redirecting foreign aid and supporting refugee resettlement initiatives.
The situation has garnered attention due to recent land seizure laws passed in South Africa, criticized for their impact on white farmers. Concerns have been raised about the potential consequences for these farmers and the racial dynamics at play.
Lowe remarked on the changing landscape of U.S. refugee enrollment policies, highlighting the difficulties faced by resettlement agencies due to reduced funding and the ongoing challenges stemming from the Trump Administration’s directives.
The relationship between EMM and the federal government remains uncertain as their involvement in refugee resettlement contracts comes to a close.
