Episcopal Migration Ministries

Immigration & Asylum Seekers

Each day, individuals and families seeking asylum flee their home countries to escape violence, religious persecution, and war. In an effort to respond faithfully to the needs of our neighbors, the Episcopal Diocese of Texas Episcopal Migration Ministries Network seeks to distribute factual information about the ongoing humanitarian needs at its southern border and to equip congregants with resources to welcome and embrace migrants in our communities.

EDOT Episcopal Migration Ministries strives to share the realities of the migrant experience, to provide education around immigration laws and policies, to support partner organizations serving migrants in our communities, and to help individuals and Episcopal congregations walk in love as we endeavor to follow Christ and serve our neighbors.

Asylum seekers flee persecution and travel to another country to seek safety and request asylum. To receive asylum in the U.S., they must prove their persecution occurred, and that it occurred due to the membership in a protected group, as defined by U.S. and international law. Seeking asylum in the U.S. is an incredibly long, complex, and fraught process, often taking years. Many asylum seekers are detained in jail-like settings during this process. When a person receives asylum in the U.S., they become an asylee and are eligible for a number of federal assistance programs, including those offered by EMM’s resettlement affiliates.

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

– Hebrews 13:2

EVENTS

June is National Immigration Month

World Refugee Day

June 8, 2024 11:00am – 2:30pm

Join the Austin Refugee Roundtable and the Bullock Museum to honor new American citizens!

Event Details

  • Established by the United Nations in 2000 and first celebrated on June 20, 2001, World Refugee Day raises awareness of the plight of refugees throughout the world. The Austin celebration, sponsored by the Bullock Museum and member organizations of the Austin Refugee Roundtable, celebrates new American citizens and recognizes the courage and resilience of refugee families and individuals.
  • The commemoration begins with a naturalization ceremony in the Texas Spirit Theater, where refugees will be sworn in and become American citizens. The public is invited to view the ceremony, but seating is limited. Following the ceremony a celebratory reception will commence in the Grand Lobby. We invite the public to join us for free samples of world cuisine, live music, and activities for families with kids of all ages!
  • National Immigration Month
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