Right now, the Virginia House is considering HB 1723, which would discriminate against refugees by requiring refugee resettlement offices to notify the state and local government of where refugees will be resettled in the state. Refugees are individuals who have been welcomed to the United States after fleeing violence and persecution. This legislation spreads fear, hate, and xenophobia and sends an unwelcoming message of exclusion to people looking for the chance to rebuild their lives.
In Virginia, resettlement offices engage in regular community dialogues to discuss refugee and community needs and other issues that the local communities face in helping refugees integrate and thrive in their new homes. This community consultation process allows state and local government officials, community members, and resettlement agencies to cooperate and coordinate closely when creating local refugee placement and service plans. HB 1723 is an unnecessary waste of taxpayer dollars and does not reflect the ongoing community dialogues that already take place.
Tell House Delegate Richard Anderson to Stop HB 1723!
Call: (804) 698-1051
Email: DelRAnderson@house.virginia.gov
Here’s what you can say:
“I’m (name) from (city, county, ethnic community, or congregation) and I’m calling to urge Delegate Anderson to strike HB 1723. This bill discriminates against refugees by requiring resettlement agencies to notify government officials where refugees will be resettled. HB 1723 does not represent the welcoming communities in Virginia. As a (person of faith or as a refugee myself), I expect Delegate Anderson to represent our state’s true values and stand with our communities in Virginia by opposing HB 1723.”
Join us in calling on Virginia House Delegate Anderson to stop the anti-refugee agenda and reject HB 1723.