Asylum is a Right, Not a Political Tool

In the wake of the tragic shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. on November 26, the Trump Administration announced a sweeping pause on asylum decisions. This move is being framed as a matter of national security but in reality is a dangerous exploitation of tragedy to advance a xenophobic political agenda.

Tens of thousands of Afghans who fled the Taliban—many of whom risked their lives to support American diplomatic, development, and military objectives—are now being scapegoated. To punish them collectively for an isolated act of violence is not only unjust but undermines the very principles upon which the United States was built.

Now, the administration has gone even further. On December 2, the Trump Administration paused all immigration applications filed by immigrants from 19 countries previously restricted from travel to the United States, halting green card and U.S. citizenship processing for broad swaths of people. This includes individuals from Iran, Sudan, Eritrea, Haiti, Somalia, and others. These actions effectively shut the door on thousands who have followed legal processes to seek safety and stability.

Asylum is not a privilege granted at the whim of political leaders; it is a fundamental human right enshrined in international and U.S. law. Further, green cards and citizenship applications already follow rigorous, years-long processes. Instead of spreading fear and division, welcoming those who seek safety strengthens our society and honors our shared humanity.