At Jesuit Refugee Service/USA (JRS/USA), we believe in protecting the dignity of forcibly displaced people and ensuring their access to safety, community, and essential services. Recent changes to US immigration enforcement policies threaten these fundamental rights, putting families and communities at risk.

On January 20, the administration rescinded the “sensitive locations” policy, which previously safeguarded places of worship, schools, hospitals, and other vital spaces from immigration enforcement actions. Without these protections, many individuals fear seeking medical care, attending religious services, or participating in their children’s education—decisions that directly impact their well-being and community stability.

Why This Matters

• Family Unity at Risk: More than 7.3 million US-born children live in mixed-status households. Deportations tear families apart, causing significant emotional and financial hardship.
• Barriers to Essential Services: Immigrants may avoid healthcare facilities, schools, and places of worship due to fear of enforcement, leading to negative consequences for entire communities.
• Impact on Faith and Community Groups: In our experience, indiscriminate enforcement policies increase immigrants’ need for the services of faith-based organizations, but make it less likely that they will access them.

Take Action

JRS/USA urges Congress and the administration to restore the sensitive locations policy and ensure that immigration enforcement respects human dignity and family unity.You can help:

• Contact your Members of Congress – Urge them to support policies that protect families and preserve safe access to essential services.
• Stay Informed – Learn more about the impact of these policy changes on immigrant communities.
• Advocate with Us – Share this message and encourage others to take action.

As people of faith, we are called to welcome the stranger and protect the vulnerable. Join us in standing for policies that uphold justice, compassion, and human dignity.