Global migration is a major challenge for much of today’s world. In words and deeds, Pope Francis repeatedly shows his deep compassion for all those forced to flee their homes. He calls us to welcome, to protect, to promote, and to integrate migrants, refugees, and victims of human trafficking.

Today – December 18 – marks International Migrants Day, a time to recognize the great challenges our world is facing in preserving the basic human rights and dignity of migrants. There are currently 244 million international migrants, individuals who leave their homes in search of a better life. Yet, their right to migrate has been under attack as countries are erecting barriers, rather than welcoming migrants with open arms.

The US is no exception. Earlier this month, the Trump Administration announced it would no longer participate in the Global Compact on Migration – a critical process to respond to the needs of migrants and refugees, and for safe, orderly, and regular migration around the world. By turning its back on life-saving cooperation with other nations, the US is abandoning its leadership as a safe haven for those who want to build a better life for themselves and their families.

The Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States and Jesuit Refugee Service/USA are committed to Pope Francis’s vision of the full embrace of migrants and refugees and to global cooperation that works towards this vision. We encourage everyone, especially those compelled by the teachings of the Church and of the Holy Father, to join us in building compassion and welcome for migrants and refugees.

Take a moment today to contact President Trump and his Administration, urging them to re-engage in the Global Compact on Migration. Your voice is important and it is time to take a stand on behalf of migrants everywhere.   Thank you for taking action today.

Jean Denis Saint Fèlix Secretary, Office of Justice and Ecology Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States

David M. Robinson Executive Director Jesuit Refugee Service/USA

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