Executive Council Adopts Resolution on LGBT Refugees & Asylum

From our colleague Ana G. White, Immigration and Refugee Policy Analyst, at The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations........


The following is a copy of a Resolution adopted by the Executive Council at its meeting from February 16 – 18, 2011 in Fort Worth, Texas, at which a quorum was present and voting.

Resolved, That lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons fleeing persecution in their own countries are among the world’s most vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers, and face unique challenges and barriers in their countries of origin, countries of first asylum, and in the United States; and be it further


Resolved, That laws and cultural attitudes around the world contribute to this climate of persecution and obstruction for those seeking protection; and be it further


Resolved, That The Executive Council, meeting in Fort Worth, Texas, from February 16-18, 2011, directs The Episcopal Church to encourage the United States government to strengthen protection and assistance for refugees who flee based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and to intensify efforts to work diplomatically in the international community, to strengthen protections in all parts of the world and in all aspects of the refugee and asylum process.


For more information you can contact Ana at 202-547-6382 (office - direct line)