REDEFINING REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT: REPAIRING THE CRACKS IN THE PATHWAY TO THE AMERICAN DREAM

Authors

Chasyty L. Escobar

Abstract

Once the world leader in refugee resettlement, the United States has slowly but steadily obliterated its refugee resettlement program. Millions of people around the globe have been forced to seek refuge from violence and persecution in their native countries. The international consequences of the refugee crisis threaten economic stability and security.

This Note will outline the history and development of refugee resettlement in the United States from Ellis Island to the present, including an overview of the various government agencies and organizations involved in refugee resettlement. Through an in-depth analysis of the political, structural, and financial issues the country faces amid the global refugee crisis, the need to expand ethnic-based community investment and enhance funding to conquer the crisis will become clear. This Note argues that the expansion of ethnic-based community-led programs will complement the current refugee resettlement infrastructure. This Note further argues that a Congressionally funded contingency account should be designated to the Reception and Placement Program and the Office of Refugee Resettlement to stabilize refugee integration. These solutions focused on greater integration and funding will help to advance resettlement in the United States and foster safety, independence, and community for refugees around the world.

Recommended Citation

Chasyty L. Escobar, REDEFINING REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT: REPAIRING THE CRACKS IN THE PATHWAY TO THE AMERICAN DREAM, 45 W. New Eng. L. Rev. 177 (2023), https://digitalcommons.law.wne.edu/lawreview/vol45/iss1/7