Two years after the fall of Kabul, uncertainty looms large over our Afghan allies’ lives, both within our borders and abroad. The anniversary highlights a pressing need for compassion, support and meaningful legislative action.
For Afghan evacuees who have resettled and tried to build a life here in the United States, their long-term prospects remain obscured by legal status challenges. The urgency of this predicament has spurred the reintroduction of a pivotal solution: the Afghan Adjustment Act (AAA). This bill not only offers stability to those already here but also extends a lifeline to the allies left behind.
Since 2021, more than 97,000 Afghans have sought refuge in the United States, leaving their futures hanging in the balance. However, the AAA not only offers stability for those already within the country’s borders but also paves the way for additional special immigrant visas (SIVs), ensuring that those who were left behind have a chance to find safety in the U.S. as well. This legislative effort demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding the lives of those who have been uprooted due to their brave work for the U.S. mission. It is imperative that we not only remember the sacrifices of these allies but also address their ongoing struggles and provide them with the security they deserve.
The bill recently introduced is more than just a legislative proposal; for our Afghan allies it could symbolize a beacon of hope. This legislation provides a pathway to permanence within a set timeframe, addressing several of the daunting challenges these allies encounter. Without the AAA, they grapple with limited access to essential services and an ongoing fear of deportation. By offering a clear pathway to permanent residence, the bill aims to alleviate the fears and uncertainties that accompany their displacement. It also would boost our national security through even stronger vetting processes.
The Ones Left Behind
While progress has been made in bringing Afghan allies to safety, a significant number still remain in dangerous situations. Over 150,000 Afghan SIV applicants are awaiting the chance to escape Afghanistan, facing the threat of retribution from the Taliban. Approximately 4,000 Afghans have sought refuge in Brazil through humanitarian visas since the inception of the program in September 2021, with a noteworthy surge observed in the final months of 2022. Others have embarked on perilous journeys through challenging routes, including the treacherous Darién Gap in Panama. Even for those who reach U.S. soil, many endure difficult conditions in detention centers while awaiting approval to remain.
Our Afghan allies’ quest for safety is a testament to their unwavering determination. The dire circumstances they face underscore the urgent need for accessible pathways to and once in the United States, a critical step toward their safety and security.
Our Shared Humanity
The Afghan refugee crisis mirrors broader immigration challenges that demand solutions. It is a stark reminder of the pressing need for immigration reforms to address the needs of those who flee their homes in search of safety and a better life. In this moment of reflection, we must stand united in our duty to create inclusive and accessible pathways for all who are fleeing persecution.
For Afghans specifically, Republicans and Democrats must take immediate action to pass a clear solution. A new survey shows that Americans strongly support certainty for our allies. Failing to pass an Afghan Adjustment Act places pressure on the already overwhelmed and significantly backlogged asylum and immigration court systems. The bill represents a lifeline, a commitment, and an embodiment of our shared humanity.
Written by Ashling Lee, Strategic Communications Intern.