The New Jersey State AFL-CIO is appalled by President Trump’s executive order, barring refugees and nationals of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. The fallout from this reckless and ill-advised policy has already become apparent with students, families, and other legal residents finding themselves stranded and unable to return to the U.S.
An article from NorthJersey.com describes the stories of several individuals who have been impacted, including a Rutgers Ph.D. student who was stopped from returning to Newark Airport and a husband with an approved green card who is not able to join his wife in the U.S. To read more stories, CLICK HERE.
This is not what the labor movement stands for nor is this representative of who we are as a nation. We are a country founded by immigrants that believes in the value of diversity and that welcomes those seeking refuge. But unless we live up to these principles, they are nothing more than words.
As a state that has welcomed immigrant families for generations and seen the value they bring to our communities, we call on all affiliates, community allies, and elected officials to rebuke Trump’s misguided policy. This ban will not improve national safety; instead, it will harm innocent people, adversely impact our global image, and undermine our national values.
The labor movement has a proud history of fighting for a nation that respects and embraces diversity. The New Jersey State AFL-CIO stands by these values and will continue to do so.