The world is facing the worst displacement crisis in history and we must lift our voices to protect global human rights and dignity. In order to rebuild and strengthen the U.S. refugee resettlement program and restore asylum protections, we must hold the Biden administration and Congress accountable to re-establish U.S. leadership, and welcome people fleeing violence and persecution. 

As our Members of Congress return home to their in-district offices for August recess, we have a unique opportunity to let our Senators and Representatives know that our communities welcome refugees and immigrants. It is vital we use this time to urge our Members of Congress to support rebuilding the refugee resettlement program, support the evacuation and protection of Afghan allies and refugees, restore asylum protections, and welcome asylum seekers and unaccompanied children.

 Here are top ways to take action during August Recess:

• Prepare and Organize a Virtual Advocacy Meeting: Use the 2021 August Recess Toolkit to prepare and organize a virtual advocacy meeting with your elected officials. You can find talking points, advocacy materials, and a guide to set up and plan your meetings in the toolkit.
• Contact your Members of Congress: Click here to access multiple action alerts to email or call your Members of Congress and urge them to hold the administration accountable to setting the refugee admissions goal of 125,000, restore asylum protections, and expand refugee protections for Afghans fleeing violence and persecution.
• Amplify on Social Media: Share this message with your Members of Congress on social media! You can find sample social, graphics, and messaging guidance in the toolkit.
• Write a Local Op-Ed: Share your own story of why welcoming refugees and immigrants is important to you by writing an op-ed for a local media outlet. Use the guide and sample op-eds in the toolkit to help you write your own op-ed.