Every person without permanent immigration status deserves a lasting solution to keep families and communities together.

But today, there are about 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. without a viable pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. They provide emotional and financial support to loved ones; shoulder responsibilities in schools, churches, local businesses, and civic organizations; and are vital members of our communities. Two-thirds have lived in the U.S. for over a decade. 

In recent weeks the Biden administration has indicated that it will restart relations with the Palestinian Authority and may restore humanitarian funding to the U.N. Relief Works Agency (UNRWA)—the primary health, education, and assistance provider to millions of Palestinian refugees across the Middle East—as well as other humanitarian groups in Palestine. This change in policy, which will provide vital and life-saving aid at a time of unprecedented need if implemented, should be welcomed.  

Soon after taking office, President Joe Biden ordered the suspension of the Trump administration’s cruel “remain in Mexico” policy. Officially known as “Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP),” the program has forced tens of thousands of asylum seekers to return to Mexico—for an indefinite amount of time—while their claims are processed. MPP is a clear violation of U.S. and international law and has placed asylum seekers in further danger, with many facing violence, obstacles accessing legal services, and unsanitary conditions amid pandemic.