Last week, the news broke that President Trump had signed an Executive Order slamming America’s door on refugees. This harmful and discriminatory act goes against our core values at Oxfam. Many Americans were outraged as well, showing up in droves to protest around the nation.
In the midst of the uncertainty our country is facing, one thing is clear: Oxfam will not back down when it comes to standing up for some of the world’s most vulnerable people. And we know that you care too. Many of you have already signed the letter urging President Trump to rescind the order and generously donated to help refugees around the world. You don't have to stop there—here is a list of seven ways you can help refugees right now.
1. Send a letter
Speak out against the refugee ban by sending a letter directly to your representatives in Congress, and tell them to act and unequivocally stop the ban on vulnerable refugees. You can use our pre-written letter or personalize it with your own message.
2. Tweet
We know President Trump takes social media seriously, so send a tweet and tell your representatives in Congress that turning away refugees is unacceptable, and that they must stand against prejudice and rescind the executive order. Use our tool for easy tweeting.
3. Make a donation
While we are fighting to protect the refugee resettlement program and the rights of those who have made it to the US, the conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq are still raging and continue to force people from their homes. Oxfam is providing essential supplies to those in need, and working to provide clean water and sanitation so they can remain healthy. We've also joined with the ACLU and the Massachusetts Attorney General's office to bring forth a lawsuit challenging Trump's executive order, which jeopardizes our lifesaving work in response to some of the world's worst crises. We need your help to continue to meet the critical needs of refugees and to support families struggling to overcome poverty around the world.
4. Start a fundraiser
Take your fundraising efforts to the next level; consider starting a fundraiser to help refugees and get your friends and family involved too. Our personal fundraising tool makes it quick and easy to get started.
5. Stand in solidarity
People all around the country are joining together to speak out against this harmful Executive Order and the hateful rhetoric surrounding it. Find a protest or rally in your community and stand up for what’s right. Try searching for events in Facebook, or start your own if you don’t see anything nearby!
6. Share a story
In the midst of crisis, it’s important to remember the individuals who have been affected. Read their stories and share them via social media, or just send the link to a friend. Here are a few to get you started, or check out the feed on our website:
- How one Syrian couple found a new home and community in West Virginia
- A father of five, this wounded Syrian refugee takes hard but steady steps forward in the US
- The blue sky of home
7. Volunteer your time
Many organizations that help refugees through the resettlement process need volunteers to do things like mentoring newly arrived families, tutoring, or assisting with childcare during English classes. Try searching idealist.org for opportunities near you, or connect with an organization that resettles refugees in your community.