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December 5, 2019
November 27, 2019
Dear Commissioner,
I write to you today out of concern for refugees and the future of the existing refugee resettlement program in Burleigh County. Specifically, I ask you to consent to the continued resettlement of refugees in your county.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops works closely with Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota and the local community to welcome refugees into the county. The primary role of these services is to unify refugee families that became separated as they sought safety while fleeing from persecution.
On September 26, 2019, President Trump set the refugee admissions goal for FY2020 at 18,000 refugees. The same day he issued Executive Order (EO) 13888[1], which requires formal consent for any of those 18,000 refugees to be initially resettled in a state or county. Continued refugee resettlement in North Dakota and in Burleigh County depends on the consent from the governor and from county officials. Governor Burgum has already given his consent. Given the life-saving nature of this program and our humanitarian commitment to refugees, we urge that you provide written consent by December 15, 2019.
Under Catholic social teaching and based on the words and life of Jesus, we are called to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and welcome refugees as part of our Christian call. We strive to treat refugees according to the golden rule by providing them protection and family reunification that we would want for ourselves and our families if we were fleeing persecution and life-threatening situations. Given the threats that refugees face, we also view resettlement work as part of our commitment to protecting the right to life at all stages.
Moreover, as Governor Burgum described in his consent letter, “North Dakota has had success at integrating refugees who have become responsible citizens and productive members of the workforce.” Refugee resettlement is not only the right thing to do, but it is good for Burleigh County and North Dakota.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend David D. Kagan, D.D., P.A., J.C.L.
Bishop of Bismarck