For Immediate Release
Contact: Erica Johnson, 773-875-1493 ejohnson@afsc.org
DES MOINES (7/11/19) In the face of increased ICE attacks on immigrant communities and threats from the Trump Administration to escalate raids, Iowans are organizing and building networks of support. The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) in Iowa, a Quaker organization that works for migrant justice, together with immigrants’ rights advocates across the state, are conducting ‘know your rights’ trainings, mobilizing rapid response and support networks, offering sanctuary in congregations, and advocating for policy changes to end immigrant detention and deportation.
“Iowans are fed-up with these militarized attacks on our communities, we’re horrified by the crisis at the border, and we’re disgusted by the inaction of our members of Congress,” said Erica Johnson, AFSC Iowa director. “Iowans are ready to do whatever is needed to defend immigrant communities, protect human rights, and work towards a world where everyone is welcome and has the opportunity to grow and thrive.”
AFSC Iowa has worked with individuals and organizations across the state to protect families from detention and deportation and institute just and humane immigration policies. The organization is calling on Congress to defund the abusive and unaccountable agencies of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and to let asylum seekers go through the process outside of detention.
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The American Friends Service Committee is a Quaker organization that includes people of various faiths who are committed to social justice, peace and humanitarian service. Its work is based on the belief in the worth of every person and faith in the power of love to overcome violence and injustice.