Following the inauguration of President Trump, the administration swiftly enacted a series of executive orders that have had sweeping and devastating implications for many communities, particularly immigrants, refugees, and asylees. These policies have created immense uncertainty and hardship for thousands of individuals and families seeking safety and stability in the United States. While the full impact of these orders continues to unfold and the legal wrangling continues, here is an overview of some of the most detrimental policies affecting our community.
Refugee Ban
On January 27, all U.S. refugee admissions were suspended, including individuals who were fully vetted and scheduled to travel. This policy has left thousands of refugees from Afghanistan, Ukraine, Central Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa stranded and vulnerable. Although a federal judge temporarily blocked the ban on February 25, the emotional and financial toll on affected communities remains severe. Given the administration’s stance, there is a real concern that this ban may be reinstated.
Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans and Haitians
The Trump administration has aggressively scaled back the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program.
- Venezuelan TPS: On February 5, 2025, the White House announced that TPS would end for over 300,000 Venezuelans, with removals scheduled to begin in April. An additional 250,000 Venezuelans, whose TPS protections are set to expire in September, are also at risk.
- Haitian TPS: On February 20, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reduced Haiti’s TPS designation from 18 months to 12 months, ending on August 3, 2025. This abrupt change means thousands of Haitians will lose their work permits and may face deportation. These measures align with the administration’s broader goal of fulfilling campaign promises of mass deportations and reducing humanitarian protections for immigrants.
Federal Funding Freeze
A broad freeze on federal funding has severely impacted nonprofit organizations, particularly those supporting refugee resettlement and immigrant services. This funding halt has created widespread operational disruptions and left many essential programs — including childcare, food assistance, housing support, energy bill assistance, and healthcare services — underfunded or shuttered. Despite legal challenges, ongoing uncertainty continues to undermine organizations’ ability to provide critical services to vulnerable communities.
Defunding of DEI Initiatives
The administration’s elimination of federal funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs has had an immediate and far-reaching impact. Federal agencies and nonprofits focused on workplace inclusion have been forced to scale back or shut down DEI efforts entirely. Large corporations seeking to maintain government contracts have begun pulling back on DEI initiatives to avoid potential legal repercussions or administrative scrutiny. This rollback threatens years of progress in creating more inclusive and equitable work environments.
Upwardly Global’s Commitment to Immigrant and Refugee Communities
Despite these challenging times, Upwardly Global remains steadfast in our mission to support immigrant, refugee, and asylee professionals.
- We are fully operational and remain committed to working closely with our partners to serve our community.
- We are deeply concerned about the far-reaching consequences these policies have on people’s ability to find employment, access vital services, and build stable lives in the U.S.
Help Us Stand With Immigrants, Refugees, and Asylees
Now more than ever, we need collective action to support those most vulnerable. Here’s how you can help:
- Donate to refugee resettlement agencies and organizations like Upwardly Global that provide career support and resources for immigrants.
- Advocate by raising awareness and speaking out against harmful policies that threaten immigrant rights and livelihoods.
- Stay informed and engage with policymakers to push for inclusive and just immigration policies.
- Volunteer to share your knowledge and expertise with immigrant and refugee professionals navigating the U.S. job market.
The fight for an inclusive America is far from over. Together, we can stand up for the rights and dignity of immigrants, refugees, and asylees, ensuring they can build brighter futures in this country and contribute to our communities.