What is the difference between asylum and sanctuary programs and is this legal?
The Journey to Asylum program is a way to accompany and shelter migrants who are pursuing asylum. Though these migrants lack permanent status, they are legally present in the U.S. as they pursue their claims. In contrast, through a sanctuary program, a migrant who has temporarily exhausted their legal options and is under a deportation order takes shelter within the building of a faith community. The migrant cannot leave church property without risking deportation, so in a sense must live under house arrest.
What does it mean to host an asylum seeker?
Congregational sponsorship means that a group within a faith community makes a commitment together to support a person or a family who has entered the legal process of seeking asylum in the United States. This commitment is generally for a year (or longer) and includes providing secure housing, fundraising for basic needs, accompanying the guest(s) to ICE meetings and court hearings, and offering friendship and community throughout the process.
Are there any legal risks?
Sponsoring an asylum seeker is entirely within the parameters of the law. If a person has credible fear for their safety in their home country, they are permitted under international law to enter the U.S. and make a plea for asylum. The congregation is not legally responsible for their actions.
Will the asylum seeker(s) participate in WUU services?
This will be the decision of the asylum seekers. They will of course be welcome to join our activities, but are under no obligation to participate. They may also choose to participate in activities of other faith traditions or none at all.
What country will the asylum seekers be from?
In many cases they will be from a country in Central America, though this may not always be the case.
Will we receive details about why they are seeking asylum?
We will honor the wishes of the asylum seeker(s) about how much information is shared. Each person’s comfort level will be different and may or may not change over time.
What is the goal of the program?
The goal is to walk in solidarity with the asylum seeker through both the legal process and the journey of adjusting to life in the U.S. Although the legal process can be very drawn out, we will work with the individual to achieve self-sufficiency on all other fronts within approximately one year of their arrival.
How can I learn more about the UUSC’s Congregational Accompaniment Project for Asylum Seekers?
Visit https://www.uusc.org/asylum-is-a-human-right-uuscs-congregational-accompaniment-project-for-asylum-seekers-capas/.