Seeking asylum is a human right - period. But now more than ever, it’s important to understand who can benefit from this and what the limitations are.
Asylum is a crucial form of protection which allows an individual to remain in the United States instead of being forcibly returned (non-refoulement) to their home country where they fear persecution or harm. The right to seek asylum has a longstanding place in international law, dating back to the aftermath of World War II and mass displacement. The United States agreed to protocols put in place by the U.N. and later enacted the Refugee Act of 1980 to bring U.S. law into alignment. An individual may be granted asylum if they are in the United States and meet the definition of a refugee. Refugee status may be granted to a person facing persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group (PSG), or political opinion. Granting asylum is essential because it offers a safe haven from potential danger and the right to stay in a new country legally.
To date, more than 3 million refugees from all over the world have found safety through asylum in the United States. Not only are asylum seekers benefiting from this process, but American-born citizens are as well. Asylum seekers contribute to the economy in various ways including: paying taxes, filling critical jobs, starting businesses, and being active in their communities. In recent years, the number of asylum claims in the U.S. has increased, however, there have also been policy changes to the asylum process that not only limits who can apply, but whose applications will be granted.
Asylum is an integral part of our work here at Beyond. Within the last year alone, we have advocated with community members in 641 asylum cases. Following our Community Partners’ direction, asylum remains a top priority, and Beyond will continue to protect the lawful rights of asylum seekers. Immigration Supervising Attorney, Elizabeth Willis, echoes that sentiment:
“Asylum provides protections to families who fear they could be gravely harmed or even killed if they are returned to their home countries. Many of our community members came to the U.S. in extremely difficult circumstances, seeking refuge. They have traveled far to find safety for themselves and their children, and we work alongside them to find that safety within our community.”