The Episcopal Church’s migration arm has refused a federal government request to aid in the resettlement of white South Africans who have been granted refugee status. This decision is based on the church’s longstanding dedication to racial justice and reconciliation. This announcement was made by Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe shortly before a group of 59 South Africans landed at Dulles International Airport near Washington, arriving via a private charter. They were met by a government delegation.
Instead of complying, Episcopal Migration Ministries plans to end its extensive collaboration with the government, a partnership that has spanned many years. Bishop Rowe highlighted that President Donald Trump had expedited refugee status for white South Africans, citing alleged discrimination by their government. This move afforded these individuals priority over thousands of potential refugees worldwide who had been subject to prolonged vetting processes.
Episcopal Migration Ministries, which has traditionally assisted in resettling refugees through federal support, was approached by the government approximately two weeks ago. They were asked to help resettle some of the South Africans under the existing grant terms. However, Rowe stated, “Due to our unwavering commitment to racial justice, and strong historical connections with the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, we cannot comply with this directive.” Rowe indicated that by the end of the federal fiscal year, the church would terminate its refugee resettlement grant agreements with the U.S. government.
In contrast, Church World Service, another faith-based group, has expressed its willingness to help with the resettlement of the Afrikaners. Meanwhile, South Africa’s government has firmly denied any accusations of discriminatory practices against its white minority population.
Rowe expressed distress at the preferential treatment given to one particular group of refugees, highlighting the long-standing plight of other refugees stuck in camps or dangerous situations for years. He remarked, “It is heart-wrenching and shameful that many potential refugees, who once supported our military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan, are now being denied entry to the U.S. and are facing peril back home due to this service.”
Bishop Rowe also pointed out that numerous refugees, including Christians facing religious persecution, are being barred from entering the country. Despite this change, the church is committed to finding alternative ways to assist immigrants, whether they are within the U.S. or stranded abroad.
The decision signifies the conclusion of a nearly four-decade partnership with the government, which has provided refuge to nearly 110,000 individuals from countries such as Ukraine, Myanmar, and Congo. This is not the first instance of tension between the Episcopal Church and the Trump administration. Previously, Bishop Mariann Budde faced presidential ire following an inaugural prayer service where she called for “mercy” for those apprehensive about Trump’s policies, including migrants and LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Anglican Church of Southern Africa, which comprises churches across South Africa and its neighboring nations, played a significant role in the anti-apartheid movement during the 1980s and 1990s. The late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, associated with this church, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his efforts.
Rick Santos, President and CEO of Church World Service, commented that they are receptive to aiding the incoming South Africans. He expressed concerns about the U.S. Government’s decision to expedite the admittance of Afrikaners while resisting court mandates to offer life-saving resettlement to other at-risk refugee groups. Santos further remarked that the situation reveals the government’s ability to swiftly screen and process refugees.
Despite these challenges, Church World Service is committed to assisting all eligible refugees, including Afrikaners, ensuring they are treated with dignity and compassion. Both Episcopal Migration Ministries and Church World Service are part of a coalition of 10 national organizations, primarily faith-based, that have partnered with the government for the purpose of refugee resettlement.