SEIU’s Sáenz: We urge Biden Administration to Reconsider New Restrictions on Asylum

WASHINGTON — SEIU International Executive Vice President Rocio Sáenz issued the following statement responding to the Biden administration’s proposed rule that would drastically restrict asylum:

“SEIU is deeply disappointed by the Biden administration's decision to further restrict access to asylum. We recognize the enormous challenge of managing our border. There is an unprecedented movement of people -- not just here but around the globe -- in response to numerous intersecting crises such as climate change, the rise of authoritarianism, and the continued impact of the pandemic. It is essential for the Biden administration to meet this situation in accordance with our laws and our values.

Both our values and our laws provide the protection of asylum for those fleeing persecution in their homelands. There is no doubt that people granted asylum, like those who came before them, will strengthen and enrich our nation in large and small ways. We urge the Administration to reconsider this policy.”