Are Americans experiencing a change of heart towards refugees? Since Aug 16, we’ve witnessed with dismay the immediate Taliban return to power in Afghanistan. We’ve viewed with horror the carnage of airport suicide bombings. We’ve peered inside the crammed compartment of giant Air Force planes evacuating Afghans. Has any of this touched American hearts?
Yes, it appears to be true. A CBS News Poll conducted August 18-20, 2021, posed the question “Do you think the US is doing too much, not enough, or about the right amount, to help Afghan people who are trying to leave Afghanistan?” 14% said Too Much. 27% said The Right Amount. And 59% – almost 2 out of every 3 Americans – responded Not Enough. Refugee resettlement agencies throughout the nation are suddenly reactivating, rehiring, and reequipping to accommodate tens of thousands of foreigners.
This survey suggests a heartening embrace of humanity, an affirmation of all human life – even lives that are very different from our own. “Recall the face of the poorest and weakest man you have seen and ask yourself if this step you contemplate is going to be any use to him.” The Afghan people are some of the poorest and weakest. May our invitation to them prove to be genuinely useful.
As these persons begin arriving in our country, will our invitation next be followed up with genuine assistance and encouragement? The Levitical scriptures declares, “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” The Afghan people are some of the world’s most mistreated. May our extension of friendship towards them prove to be heart-felt.
Actions steps: Watch TEDx Talk International Refugee Care. Take INMED’s International Refugee Care Course. Volunteer with a US Refugee Resettlement Agency.