ACRS Statement on Executive Orders Impacting Immigrants

For over 50 years, Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS) has been dedicated to supporting immigrants, refugees, and other vulnerable community members. Our commitment to fostering safety and belonging for everyone in our community remains unwavering.

The executive orders issued last week targeting immigrants and refugees have a deeply concerning impact. These measures threaten the ability of individuals to remain in the country, access vital health and social services, and feel safe in their everyday lives. This has understandably sparked fear and anxiety. The administration intends to create chaos, panic, and fear, so we encourage everyone to stay informed with accurate information, be vigilant, and exercise caution during this time to prioritize the safety and well-being of yourselves, your families, and our community.

We call on the broader community to stand in principled solidarity with those most affected. Regardless of immigration status, criminal record, or any other marker used to divide us, we all deserve the right to live with dignity and respect. Let us come together and reaffirm the values that unite us all: dignity, compassion, and humanity. Our collective action is needed now more than ever to advocate for the real needs of our community and to push back against divisive rhetoric that fuels harmful actions. A better future requires us to unite, speak out, and challenge injustice.

We faced similar challenges in 2017, and together we persevered with courage and determination. As we confront this new challenge, let us remember the strength we showed then and rise again—stronger than before.