Let me tell you an asylum story. According to news sources, about 4,000 asylum seekers are entering the United States daily along the southern border, and Biden wants to limit that number to 2500. Many of those who claim they are seeking asylum, which is defined by statute, are not true asylum seekers, but because the Republican Congress has not authorized more border agents, they are not vetted and thus enter.
I represent asylum seekers. Many do not get their day in court for years and their evidence becomes stale. It’s ridiculous that an asylum seeker who entered the U.S. more than 10 years ago needs to present a case to a judge who only wants to clear the docket and has little, if any, understanding of country conditions.
Over the past 6 to 10 years ago, they have built lives, had U.S. born children, and even established businesses should have to then defend a claim when half the witnesses have been killed or moved from fear. We are now paying for years of neglect, not to mention support of corrupt regimes and U.S. business interests.
Prayer for the Day
Lord of Righteousness, we are troubled by what we see around us,
And we sometimes wonder if you hear our prayers;
We are anxious and at times fearful of the world around us
For events impinge on our hearts and minds.
Help us to understand that in spite of all, you are here
To give us hope and strength in a time of despair.
In the name of the One who is your embodiment of hope,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
It is a time for a legally binding instrument to control transnational corporations with respect to human rights. A treaty that also gives victims of corporate abuses access to justice where there is none and challenges the economic and political power of TNCs.
Letícia Paranhos, Friends of the Earth International
Corruption is paid by the poor
Pope Francis
In you, O Lord, I seek refuge; do not let me be put to shame;
In your righteousness deliver me.
Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily.
Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me.
You indeed are my rock and my fortress;
For your name’s sake lead me and guide me, for you are my refuge.
Psalm 31: 1-3