The Episcopal Church has halted its refugee resettlement programs with the federal government due to concerns about prioritizing white individuals from South Africa. This has led to a broader discussion about the removal of immigration protections.
Bishop Sean Lowe stated in a letter that just two weeks prior, the federal government was set to resettle Anglican immigration ministries from South Africa, which the U.S. had classified as refugees, under federal grant conditions.
The State Department announced the arrival of the first group of white South Africans in the U.S. on Monday.
Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce defended this decision, claiming the group faces discrimination and danger in South Africa, framing the move as an effort to support victims of racism.
“There’s no need to fear losing property without compensation or becoming victims of violent attacks based on ethnicity. Over the coming months, we will welcome more African refugees and assist them as they rebuild their lives in our country,” Bruce stated earlier.
A spokesperson from the South African Foreign Ministry criticized the Trump administration’s focus on African resettlement as politically motivated.
This came after President Trump signed an executive order in February promoting Cabinet members to create a resettlement program for Africans, asserting his own experiences with unfair racism.
“I want to clarify why we made this choice, emphasizing the significance of the Anglican immigration ministries. It’s disheartening to see refugees selected in such an unusual manner, receiving priority over others in dire situations waiting in refugee camps,” Lowe mentioned in his letter.
“I feel saddened and embarrassed for the many refugees who are not allowed entry into the U.S. Despite their bravery in assisting our military and facing dangers in their home countries,” he added.
On the same day, the administration officially rescinded the temporary protected status for Afghans, leaving many vulnerable to deportation, despite warnings that they could face violence and persecution under the Taliban.
Oka reached out to the White House for further comments.
