Letter to Biden-Mayorkas on Asylum Neogotiations
December 22, 2023
Dear President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas,
Grace and peace be with you. As representatives of the Latino Christian National Network, a collective of leaders from various Christian denominations and organizations within the evangelical, Pentecostal, and historic Protestant traditions, we write to you as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Our purpose in writing is to express heartfelt concern about recent discussions regarding potential legislative measures that could impact our U.S. asylum system, particularly those affecting our Latino brothers and sisters. Among the asylum policies under consideration are measures such as the implementation of border expulsions resembling those under 'Title 42,' the expansion of expedited removals and immigration detention, the heightened credible fear standard, the codification of an asylum 'transit' ban, and the establishment of a numerical cap on asylum protections.
Drawing on our collective experience and considering recent history, it becomes evident that none of these proposed policies is likely to diminish the number of migrant encounters at the US-Mexico border. Notably, the reintroduction of 'Title 42' is anticipated to exacerbate the situation.
As stewards of compassion and advocates for the vulnerable, we call on you to carefully consider the potential repercussions of these policies. May our collective efforts strive for solutions that align with the values of justice, compassion, and the innate dignity of every human being.
As Latino Christians, we embrace the sacred practice of hospitality as part of our daily spiritual discipline. Our theological convictions have been deeply shaped by the stories of migration, and our congregations have historically played a vital role in extending love, support, and a warm welcome to those seeking asylum at our southern border.
We understand the complexities at the border and recognize the need for bipartisan efforts to address our challenges. However, we humbly submit that solely adopting asylum restrictions is not and has not been the most effective approach. Our shared history teaches us that these policies may not reduce the number of migrant encounters at the US-Mexico border and, in some instances, may exacerbate the situation.
In the spirit of fostering a compassionate and humane approach, we urge you to consider comprehensive solutions. We appeal for the inclusion of permanent legal pathways and solutions for DACA recipients, Temporary Protected Status beneficiaries, farmworkers, and undocumented immigrants, many of whom are members of our Latino community. We propose an opportunity to not only provide necessary funding for the defense of Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan but also to invest in initiatives that address the root causes of migration. Furthermore, we advocate for the development of improved relationships and adjudication systems in coordination with Mexico and Central America.
Our concern extends beyond policy discussions to the impact these decisions have on our community, particularly our Latino youth. We are fully aware that our Latino community will bear the weight of these policies. It is disheartening to consider that Latinos and our youth may be invited to participate in national civic endeavors without receiving proper representation or the safeguarding of our interests.
Therefore, as people of faith, we implore for a compassionate and just approach that not only upholds our shared values but also safeguards the well-being and concerns of our community, ensuring that our voices are not only heard but genuinely represented in the decisions that shape our collective future.
We pray for wisdom and discernment as you navigate these important decisions, trusting that your leadership will be guided by compassion and a commitment to justice. May our collective efforts lead to solutions that uphold every individual's dignity and embody Christ's love.
In Christ's love,
Rev. Carlos L. Malavé
Latino Christian National Network
Board Members
Rev. Rubén Ortiz – Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
Rev. Anthony Guillen – Episcopal Church
Rev. Lori Tapia – Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Rev. Efraín Pineda – Congreso Red
Dr. Alexia Salvatierra – Fuller Theological Seminary
Ms. Sandy Ovalle – Sojourners
Mr. Agustín Quiles – Mission Talk
Dr. Sergio Navarrete – Evangel University
Mr. Elket Rodríguez – Immigration Consultant