
A message from Robin Dempsey, Chief Executive Officer
On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order titled, “Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program.” A copy of the order is available at Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program – The White House.
This order suspends the resettlement of refugees through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) beginning on January 27, 2025. Refugees may not enter the country through USRAP until President Trump determines resumption of USRAP is in the best interests of the United States.
For more than 40 years, USRAP has been an example of U.S. leadership and commitment to humanitarian protection and freedom. This Executive Order will impact Alaskans who will be unable to reunify with their family members through USRAP, despite having been thoroughly vetted and approved for travel to the United States.
The Catholic Social Teaching of “dignity of the human person” calls on us all to help, protect, and provide for our global neighbors as all human life is sacred. “Refugee resettlement provides a safe and legal opportunity for individuals fleeing persecution to rebuild their lives in Alaska, where they enrich our community’s economic and cultural landscape,” said CSS Chief Executive Officer, Robin Dempsey.
“CSS remains dedicated to welcoming refugees and will continue to assist those already in our community as they work to rebuild their lives.”
– CSS Chief Executive Officer, Robin Dempsey
At CSS, we are committed to our mission to “compassionately serve those in need, strengthen individuals and families, and advocate for the common good.” The Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services (RAIS) at Catholic Social Services continues to serve more than 1,000 clients currently residing in Alaska through case management, workforce development, health, and youth and elder services. Through these supports, newcomers to our communities are equipped for long-term success and contribute as business owners, employees, community members, and neighbors.
We are proud to be part of a community of faith organizations, businesses, schools, social service agencies, and so many other partners who recognize the importance of embracing individuals fleeing hardship and the immense value they bring to our economic, civic, and cultural life.
We encourage our community to find a way to get involved by attending the “Building Belonging: Support New Americans in Our Community” event happening on February 2 at the Alaska Airlines Center from 1-4 p.m. Come find out how you can make a difference in a refugee’s life. Event details: https://www.cssalaska.org/build-belonging-support-new-americans-in-our-community/
More information about our Refugee Assistance and Immigration Services program, can be found on our website: Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services – Catholic Social Services – Alaska.