A prayer for a policy change
Today, May 11, 2023, is the long-awaited day when Title 42 finally lifts. But instead of rejoicing, we are bracing for what comes in its aftermath: the Biden Asylum Ban.
Despite campaign promises, President Biden is implementing a policy that will restrict asylum even more than Title 42 did. To prepare for this upheaval, many people are making their way to the border. Fellowship Southwest is sending volunteers, and the president is sending military troops.
Immigration is expected to increase after the lifting of Title 42 today. You may be wondering why that is, if Biden’s replacement policy is even more restrictive.
Migrants have been waiting 3 years for Title 42 to lift. They know it’s finally ending, and they assume that without Title 42, they will be permitted to claim asylum and start their immigration process according to American and international law.
They might have heard that the U.S. will change their immigration policy, but this in-between time while everyone is adjusting might be a good chance to try.
Spring and early summer is peak season for migration. Many of these migrants have been on their journey for months. Every year emigration from countries in Central and South America are increasing because of political instability, climate instability, and gang violence.
Biden’s plans do not address the root causes of migration, like we had hoped. Instead, he is stationing immigration centers in some of those countries with the intention of redirecting migrants to Canada and Spain.
There is so much disappointment among advocates and the people serving migrants at the border, like the pastors with whom we partner. Here is a prayer for a day like today, and the days that follow, for hope and perseverance and compassion.
O God
For the weary travelers, the pilgrims, the migrants
They thought this day would bring opportunity
But it seems to be worse than before.
Surround them with your protection and comfort
May their hopes not be dashed
May their feet find solid ground
May they be filled, according to your word.
O God
For the weary advocates, the volunteers, the pastors
They thought they were being heard
But now they are being asked to do even more.
Help them to stay focused on their calling
May their energy persist
May their compassion carry them
May they be blessed, according to your word.
O God
For the policy makers, the politicians, the government officials
They think they are trying a new thing
But it’s the same exclusion of your children with a different name.
May love have more power than fear.
May they remember to care for the stranger, the orphan, the widow
To let the little children come, according to your word.
Amen