As Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House looms, refugee and immigrant advocacy organizations across the United States are stepping up efforts to prepare for anticipated challenges. Trump, who has vowed to use the U.S. military for mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, has sparked concern among advocacy groups that his administration might bring significant changes to refugee and asylum policies.
Trump’s First-Term Legacy on Refugee Policies
Between 2016 and 2020, the Trump administration enacted stringent immigration measures, including an unprecedented reduction of the refugee admissions cap to 15,000, the lowest since the Refugee Act of 1980. These actions dismantled much of the refugee resettlement infrastructure, with many offices closing due to funding cuts and dwindling admissions. Policies such as the “Muslim Ban” also drew widespread criticism and legal challenges from organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which managed to block some of Trump’s most controversial proposals.
With Republicans now holding both houses of Congress and a conservative Supreme Court majority, advocates warn that Trump’s policies could face fewer obstacles during a second term. His appointed “border czar,” Tom Homan, has already indicated a more aggressive stance, describing the planned immigration policies as “shock and awe” measures.
Resettlement Organizations Respond to Uncertainty
Non-profits and advocacy groups are working to bolster their capacities to withstand potential disruptions. In Atlanta, the Welcome Co-op, which was formed during Trump’s first term to address resettlement uncertainties, is doubling down on community engagement. The group assists refugees with housing, providing resources such as hygiene kits, clothing, and volunteer support for setting up homes. This year alone, they prepared 725 apartments for over 3,200 refugees and distributed essential supplies to more than 1,200 people.
Emily Laney, Executive Director of the Welcome Co-op, emphasized the need for collaboration and resource pooling to ensure refugee support continues. She reaffirmed their objective and urged communities to volunteer and advocate for refugees and immigrants, stating they were prepared to welcome as many refugees as they came in.
Preparing for Challenges | US Refugee and Immigrant Advocacy
The Refugee Women’s Network (RWN) in Georgia, the only organization in the state focused explicitly on supporting refugee women, is taking steps to secure funding to sustain operations under potentially restrictive policies. Executive Director Sushma Barakoti shared that the organization is raising funds to maintain staffing levels while also engaging donors and supporters in advocacy efforts.
Barakoti stressed the importance of collective action, urging supporters to pressure lawmakers to protect refugee programs.
In Tennessee, where refugee admissions are significantly lower than in Georgia, organizations like the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition (TIRRC) are also ramping up preparations. TIRRC provides critical resources such as translation services, housing assistance, and naturalization support. The group is also equipping local governments, schools, and community partners with tools to navigate potential policy changes.
Judith Clerjeune from TIRRC acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that this time, advocacy groups have a clearer understanding of Trump’s potential policy agenda.
Looking Ahead: U.S. Refugee Groups Staff Up as Trump’s Return Sows Uncertainty
The prospect of a second Trump presidency has galvanized refugee and immigrant advocacy groups to strengthen their networks and increase community engagement. These organizations are determined to protect the rights and resources of vulnerable populations, even as the political landscape grows increasingly uncertain.
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