Vermont Business Magazine The Voice for Refuge Action Fund has announced the launch of our ‘State Legislators for Welcome’ initiative with 129 state legislators representing 34 states and the District of Columbia joining for the initial launch; with more to follow in the coming months. ## members from [state] are among those who joined.
Legislators who signed the pledge committed to publicly call for an increase in refugee arrivals, to support State investments in refugee resettlement and key services, and to consult with refugee and immigrant leaders in their state.
“States that welcome refugees and advance policies to support the success of new arrivals build stronger communities and economies for everyone. We’re glad to see so many state leaders, representing such a diverse group of states, choose to publicly voice their support,” said Voice for Refuge Managing Director Mary Elizabeth Margolis.
Legislators who signed the pledge include refugees, immigrants, children of immigrants themselves, and allies at the state level. States represented among the signatories include Utah, Hawaii, Alaska, Vermont, South Dakota, Oregon, Michigan, North Carolina, and Arizona, among others.
"I am honored to represent Vermont’s most diverse district, Winooski. We have many communities and cultures that are powerful and resilient. Winooski inspires others around the state to think beyond Vermont-specific issues. We push conversations beyond our borders to families and events and complex identities. As someone who has lived and worked in under-developed countries since 2007, and a MA in international development I remain committed to supporting and promoting a healthy future ripe with opportunities for refugees and immigrants across Vermont." Representative Daisy Berbeco, Winooski District, Vermont
“The foreign policy of the United States has caused much harm across the Earth, leading to disaster and displacement for so many people. The least that we can do is offer refuge and opportunity to those most impacted. The beautiful tapestry of this country- woven from the struggles of so many of our ancestors- would greatly benefit from the strands of strength brought by new neighbors seeking to contribute to building a stronger democracy and a just transition from the destruction to the regeneration of our planet.” Representative Brian Cina, House District Chittenden 15, Vermont
“Our most vibrant communities are our most diverse communities and in a globalizing world it is critically important to support diversity, to learn from other cultures and to embrace the many people who are looking to thrive in our communities.” Senator Tanya Vyhovsky, Chittenden Central District Vermont
“Not only am I a migrant, but my paternal and maternal families are themselves products of global migration. It is the most human and natural instinct to seek a better life, and our planet's history is full of tragic moments when angry people separate "insider" from "outsider." Our strongest moments, on the other hand, when we innovate, grow, and create partnerships, have been borne out of nurturing migrants and migrant cultures.” Representative Leonora Dodge House District Chittenden 23, Vermont
Voice for Refuge and partner organizations will evaluate this list regularly to ensure that legislators are keeping their promises and cooperating with grassroots and resettlement organizations. New legislative members are welcome to join anytime. The pledge form and application will remain open indefinitely, with updates made to the list every few months.
Voice for Refuge is the first 501(c)4 organization created to advance pro-refugee policies at the national, state, and local level and to hold elected leaders accountable to upholding America’s legacy of welcome.
Source: 8.8.2023. New York City— The Voice for Refuge Action Fund
