Yesterday, the Trump administration announced plans to slash the number of refugees it will allow to come to the U.S. to just 7,500 (down from 125,000 last year) while giving preference to certain national groups. This is more than a policy change, it’s a moral failure.

For generations, the United States has been a beacon of hope for people fleeing war, persecution, and violence. This decision violates not only the letter, but the spirit of U.S. and international refugee law, undermining decades of American leadership. It abandons that legacy and replaces compassion with calculation.

With more than 40 million refugees worldwide, America can’t choose who deserves safety based on politics.

For 25 years, CIRA has helped families fleeing war, violence, and persecution rebuild their lives in safety and with dignity. We’ve seen what happens when communities open their hearts, when neighbors, faith partners, nonprofit organizations, and local governments come together to offer a new beginning. Refugees strengthen our communities, our economy, and our shared humanity.

If anything, yesterday’s decision only deepens our commitment to the thousands of refugees who already call Nebraska home. We’ll do what we’ve always done: offer them legal support, social services, and guidance as they build their lives here.

We’ll continue to push for a refugee program that protects all people, and reflects the global need. Now is the time to stand firm in our values and to lead with courage, to act with compassion, and to ensure that every person fleeing danger has a place to call home.