Afghan-American advocates are raising their voices in the leadup to the November elections, urging presidential candidates to address the challenges faced by Afghans who fled their country following the US military withdrawal in August 2021. The chaotic nature of the withdrawal and the subsequent return of Taliban rule have become key talking points in the election campaigns.
Advocates like Nasrin, who worked as an interpreter for the US embassy in Kabul, have highlighted the need for increased immigration pathways for Afghans seeking refuge in the US. The Biden administration has made some progress in processing Special Immigrant Visa applications, but critics say more needs to be done to support vulnerable Afghans.
The Afghan Adjustment Act, which would create a pathway to permanent residency for Afghan evacuees, remains stalled in Congress due to partisan divides over immigration. Advocates believe that addressing the needs of Afghan refugees could be a political opportunity for candidates, particularly in swing states with large veteran populations.
Advocates are also calling for increased funding for resettlement services and support for women’s rights in Afghanistan. They hope that the outcome of the election will bring positive change for Afghan refugees and send a message of US commitment to its allies around the world.
As the election approaches, Afghan-American advocates are raising their voices to ensure that the challenges facing Afghan refugees are not overlooked in the political discourse. They are calling on candidates to prioritize the needs of Afghan evacuees and uphold US commitments to its allies in the global community.
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