Advocates Urge American Christians to Assist Afghan Christians Facing Persecution
This article addresses the plight of Afghan Christians who assisted U.S. troops during the war in Afghanistan, highlighting their current risks due to executive orders issued by the Trump administration. Advocates call for American Christians to lead efforts in securing refugee status for these individuals. The article explains the special immigrant visa process for Afghans and the ongoing challenges they face.
Numerous Afghans provided essential assistance to the United States during its two-decade involvement in Afghanistan, collaborating with American military personnel and government in opposition to the Taliban. Among these individuals are many Christians, whose lives and livelihoods have come under significant threat since three executive orders issued by the Trump administration halted critical immigration pathways. These orders have altered the framework established in the wake of the Biden administration’s withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Advocates are particularly concerned that Afghanistan may soon be added to a list of countries from which refugees will be completely barred from entering the U.S. Kami Rice, co-founder of Allied Shepherd, emphasized the obligation of American Christians, particularly those who supported former President Trump, to advocate for these at-risk individuals. She stated, “As people of faith, and particularly in this present, cultural, and political moment, it’s on us to be the leaders on these issues, particularly because of the support that President Trump has had in the evangelical and faith communities.”
Following his inauguration on January 20, President Trump signed an executive order suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) along with others designed to pause foreign aid and require reporting on countries with inadequate vetting processes. Insiders have indicated that Afghanistan is likely to be included on a list which would ban all Afghan entry to the United States.
Rice, who is also a journalist and editor-in-chief of Anthrow Circus, explained how Afghan citizens could gain entry to the U.S. primarily through a special immigrant visa (SIV). An Afghan must demonstrate one year of employment with the U.S. government, which encompasses various roles ranging from electricians on military bases to those risking their lives as interpreters in combat situations. She highlighted that all qualified applicants undergo vetting before being permitted to work with the U.S. military.
Once qualifying Afghans apply for an SIV, they have already passed initial vetting through their previous government work and must undergo further evaluation during the visa application process. This ensures that they meet the necessary requirements to enter the U.S. and underscores their vital contributions during the conflict in Afghanistan.
In conclusion, numerous Afghans, including many Christians, who assisted the United States during its military engagement in Afghanistan face peril due to specific executive orders from the Trump administration. Advocates stress the importance of American Christians advocating for these vulnerable individuals. There are pathways, such as the special immigrant visa program, which require careful vetting to ensure the safety and reliability of Afghan applicants who contributed significantly to U.S. efforts in the region.
Original Source: churchleaders.com
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