Context:

The Episcopal Church's Migration Ministries has decided to terminate its partnership with the U.S. government rather than assist in resettling White South African refugees, a decision driven by their commitment to racial justice and opposition to preferential treatment in refugee resettlement. This decision follows President Trump's fast-tracking of refugee status for these South Africans, amid a broader reduction in other refugee resettlement programs. The church expressed concern over the prioritization of these refugees, who they believe are receiving preferential treatment over others who have been waiting in dire conditions. The Trump administration, however, criticized the church's decision, arguing that Afrikaners face significant persecution in South Africa and deserve resettlement. Episcopal Migration Ministries has been resettling refugees for decades and is now seeking alternative ways to support refugees outside of the government program, while other organizations remain committed to serving eligible refugees regardless of politics.

Dive Deeper:

• The Episcopal Church’s Migration Ministries plans to end its partnership with the U.S. government over disagreements about resettling White South African refugees, citing their commitment to racial justice and opposition to preferential treatment.

• President Trump has expedited the refugee status for White South Africans, claiming they face governmental discrimination, while simultaneously limiting other refugee resettlement programs.

• Bishop Sean Rowe expressed disappointment that preference is being given to these refugees, while many who have supported U.S. military efforts abroad remain in perilous situations without resettlement opportunities.

• The Trump administration criticized the Episcopal Church's decision, asserting that Afrikaners have been severely persecuted in South Africa and deserve resettlement like other refugees admitted in prior administrations.

• The Episcopal Church has a long-standing history of resettling refugees through federal grants, but now plans to explore other methods to continue assisting refugees without government collaboration.

• Other organizations, like Church World Service, continue to support the resettlement of eligible refugees and have urged the U.S. government to prioritize those in immediate danger instead of politicizing resettlement.

• The conflict highlights broader tensions between the Trump administration's immigration policies and faith-based organizations’ commitments to humanitarian principles and equitable treatment for all refugees.