In Washington, the efforts of a dedicated organization, No One Left Behind, play a vital role in supporting the resettlement of Afghan allies who aided the United States during its military operations in Afghanistan. Andrew Sullivan, the executive director, recalls a particularly poignant case of an Afghan man in a wheelchair, injured by the Taliban for assisting U.S. forces. This example drives home the organization’s mission to ensure that such individuals do not face the threat of returning to an unsafe environment.
No One Left Behind, composed of U.S. military veterans, displaced Afghans, and American volunteers, acts as a lifeline for Afghans endangered due to their collaboration with U.S. forces. The organization is notably focused on aiding those eligible for the special immigrant visa program, established in 2009, to offer protection to those who risked their lives for the United States during wartime.
Under the Trump administration, there have been significant setbacks for these critical initiatives. The suspension of programs that financed flights for refugees and the curtailment of assistance for their resettlement have left many holding visas yet unable to reach U.S. soil. The government’s silence on the issue adds further uncertainty.
Displaced Afghans find themselves in precarious situations in countries like Pakistan, which has increased deportations despite having hosted millions. The temporary refuge offered by Albania is also set to end soon, prompting urgent action from organizations like No One Left Behind.
Concerns grow over the potential introduction of a travel ban that could halt Afghan entry altogether, following executive orders directed by President Trump. Although the State Department’s review on this matter is ongoing, there is palpable anxiety within organizations working with Afghan communities.
No One Left Behind has stepped in decisively to mitigate these challenges, focusing on ensuring that Afghans with State Department visas can successfully enter the U.S. Their initiative has been bolstered by funds raised to arrange flights and facilitate the arrival process. Recently, they managed to secure transportation for 659 Afghans, demonstrating their commitment amid funding cuts.
Innovative measures include the launch of a website designed for visa holders to share pertinent information, creating a foundational network that aids in their resettlement process. Additionally, representatives, including Afghan and Iraqi emigrants now residing in the U.S., have been dispatched to regions like Albania and Qatar to offer direct support.
Aqila, one such ambassador with personal connections at risk in Afghanistan, has dedicated efforts to reassure families about their future in America. Practical tasks, such as providing contact details for legal assistance and sharing information on their rights, are crucial steps in easing their transition.
Mohammad Saboor, who worked extensively alongside U.S. forces, is one of the success stories. He and his family were able to settle in Northern California, grateful for the safety and opportunities the U.S. presents. The Sacramento area, renowned for its Afghan community, offered them a beacon of hope for integration and prosperity.
Acknowledging the dangers faced by those previously aligned with American efforts, Sullivan emphasizes the rigorous vetting these individuals have undergone, arguing for their inclusion should new travel restrictions be proposed.
Aqila, reflecting on the stories of hardship and eventual hope, underscores the importance of compassion and humanity. Witnessing the transformation in the lives of those who have come to America, she notes the powerful impact of empathy and kindness in building a supportive community.
