In North Carolina, a church community stands firm in its support of Afghan Christian refugees facing deportation, challenging the Trump administration’s position on the improved conditions in Afghanistan. Julie Tisdale, a seminary student from the Church of the Apostles in Raleigh, is at the forefront of advocating for these individuals, highlighting the threats they face due to their faith.
Tisdale has voiced her frustration over the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan nationals, effective July 14. This decision comes despite ongoing concerns about the safety of Afghan Christians, who she argues are at risk due to their conversion to Christianity, which is punishable by death under the Taliban regime.
In her op-ed for The Christian Post, Tisdale previously highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that the refugees had received a notice giving them just a week to leave the United States. Despite the passing of the deadline without immediate consequence, she continues to seek congressional support.
“We are continuing to try to reach out to senators and congressmen and other people who may know, have contacts … in the administration,” Tisdale shared in a recent interview. However, finding a champion to publicly raise the issue has proven challenging.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem defended the decision, stating, “Afghanistan has an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent them from returning to their home country.” However, Tisdale strongly disputes this, emphasizing that the danger lies in religious persecution, not economic conditions. Afghanistan is ranked as the 10th worst country for Christian persecution, according to Open Doors’ World Watch List.
Beyond religious conversion, Tisdale points to additional vulnerabilities faced by those who have worked with the U.S. military, making them targets for the Taliban. Having heard harrowing firsthand accounts, Tisdale maintains that returning these individuals to Afghanistan would be tantamount to a death sentence.
The legal journey for refugees seeking asylum in the U.S. is fraught with complexity. Many are in various stages of applying for asylum, appealing rulings, or awaiting green cards. The church is committed to supporting these refugees, providing financial aid for legal fees, and assisting with daily needs such as school pick-ups for children.
High-profile figures like Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, are also involved. Graham has engaged with Washington leaders, including Senator Lindsey Graham, to discuss the plight of Afghan Christians. “I have been told that the deadline has been pushed back in order for cases to be reviewed,” he stated, expressing hope for a resolution.
While the future remains uncertain, the dedication of Tisdale and her church community highlights the ongoing struggle for Afghan Christians seeking a safe haven in the United States.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
