North Carolina Church Advocates for Afghan Christians Facing Deportation
A North Carolina church community is rallying to prevent the deportation of nearly two dozen Afghan Christian refugees, highlighting a complex intersection of faith, immigration, and international politics. The refugees, who fled Afghanistan following the Taliban’s resurgence, now face expulsion from the United States before their asylum claims have been fully evaluated.
Julie Tisdale, a seminary student and member of the Church of the Apostles in Raleigh, is actively involved in advocating for these Afghan Christians. “We’ve been advocating with members of Congress and senators,” Tisdale shared with The Christian Post. Her efforts include engaging with legislative staff and participating in media outreach to bring attention to the refugees’ plight.
In a recent op-ed, Tisdale voiced her concerns regarding the emails sent to the Afghan Christians, which notified them of the impending deportation deadline. The refugees had arrived legally in the U.S. after escaping the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, where they faced dire threats due to their faith.
According to Tisdale, the Afghan Christians were given legal status upon entering the U.S., allowing them to work, obtain licenses, and integrate into society. “Their journeys to the United States were harrowing, long and complicated, but they all entered the U.S. legally,” she wrote, emphasizing the rigorous process these individuals underwent to prove their credible fear of persecution.
The advocacy efforts by Tisdale and her church have received mixed responses from government officials. While some responses have been automated, others have involved more direct engagement with staff specializing in immigration issues.
‘Personal Connections’
Part of the church’s involvement stems from personal connections. A church member who spent time in Afghanistan introduced many of the refugees to the congregation. This organic network has fostered close ties between the church and the Afghan Christians.
Despite the deportation deadline having passed, Tisdale expressed relief that no action has been taken against the refugees. “We are continuing to pursue all of these avenues to try to ensure that their legal picture and their legal status here remains clear,” she stated, noting that the church is also raising funds for legal expenses related to the asylum process.
Following the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, the Biden administration extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Afghan nationals. However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently announced it would not renew this status, potentially leading to deportations starting in May.
In response to inquiries about the specific refugees connected to Tisdale’s church, U.S. Customs and Border Protection noted, “CBP has issued notices terminating parole for individuals who do not have lawful status to remain.” This action does not currently affect certain programs like Uniting for Ukraine and Operation Allies Welcome, designed to support vulnerable Afghan resettlements.
Afghanistan is ranked as the 10th worst nation for Christian persecution by Open Doors International’s World Watch List. The humanitarian organization Samaritan’s Purse has been instrumental in connecting Afghan refugees with supportive U.S. churches.
Rev. Franklin Graham of Samaritan’s Purse reported ongoing discussions with Washington leaders, saying, “I spoke with Sen. Lindsey Graham about it this week, and I know that other leaders in Washington are discussing this issue with the president.” He acknowledged efforts to extend the deadline for reviewing cases.
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has also raised concerns, writing to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to request a 90-day pause on the revocation of protections for Afghan Christians. “These refugees, many of whom have already applied for asylum and possess documentation of lawful parole, face a credible threat of imprisonment, torture, or death if returned to the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan,” Raffensperger warned in his letter.
Meanwhile, the Afghan Christians have found a temporary spiritual home at the Church of the Apostles, where they participate in Bible study and worship in their native language. Tisdale noted, “We’ve gotten to know them a little bit. We have a number of people in our congregation who work with refugees in some capacity or are just interested and concerned, so it’s been a pretty natural fit for us.”
Facing ‘Certain’ Death
Tisdale expressed certainty about the risks the refugees face if deported, stating, “They suffered all sorts of torture while in prison, and so having endured that once, were they to be returned, there is no way that the Taliban would allow them to survive.” She emphasized that these individuals simply seek a peaceful life free from fear.
She urged Christians to “pray for mercy, and write to your senators, representatives, and the White House” to support the Afghan Christians. Tisdale’s appeal underscores a broader call for compassion and action in line with American ideals of freedom and justice.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
