Washington, DC: In response to reports that the White House is preparing to announce a ban expanding the “Muslim Ban” and other travel bans of President Trump’s first term, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi wrote to President Trump to urge him to abandon the effort due to its harm to American interests. The consequences of such a ban could include the abandonment of thousands of people of Afghanistan who are now in danger of retaliation by the Taliban for having helped American civilians and servicemembers. When President Trump issued his original travel ban in January 2017, Congressman Krishnamoorthi was the first member of Congress to arrive at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago to speak out against the measure and help secure the release of lawful visitors and U.S. nationals illegally detained under the order.
“U.S. immigration policy must be advanced by American values, prosperity, and security, but this potential travel ban would harm these efforts,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote. “With respect to Afghanistan, for example, this ban could leave thousands in limbo, many of whom are former translators, military aides, and government workers promised protections from Taliban retaliation and who are in the lawful process of obtaining a U.S. visa. It would be unjust for the United States to shut the door on those who risked everything to help us and are going through proper immigration channels, while your administration also shuts down multiple refugee programs. Eliminating safe and secure legal immigration pathways only hurts our national security.”
“Reinstating this discriminatory policy for additional countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, would not only harm family reunification but also weaken our national security and economy,” the Congressman continued. “The 2017 travel ban prevented medical professionals, and business leaders from entering the United States, hurting industries that rely on international talent. It also sent a message of exclusion, fueling prejudice toward our Muslim neighbors and constituents, as well as non-white members of all faiths who routinely face the same discrimination during such periods of prejudice. Your impending course of action must be reconsidered to ensure that our policies truly reflect American values.”
