A Discernment Guide for Congregations

Sanctuary a discernment guide for congregations

June 2017 Office of Public Witness Presbyterian Church (USA)

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1 Table of Contents

Introduction & History 3 Discernment Process 6 Biblical Reflection 9 Narrative 11 Education & Resources 13

2 Introduction & History What is sanctuary?

The Sanctuary Movement is a growing the call to actively love our immigrant movement of immigrant and faith commu- neighbors. In 2014, with an escalation of nities who are standing with groups made deportations under the Obama administra- vulnerable by the current political climate, tion, the sanctuary network was revived including immigrants at risk of deportation. to bring attention to a broken immigration system. Churches once again took a stand Rooted in a long tradition of faith com- against an unjust system that tears families munities providing refuge to those fleeing apart and forces the 11 million undocu- unjust laws, the Sanctuary Movement was mented people in the US, a majority of officially started in the 1980s, when more whom have lived in the nation for more than 500 congregations provided support than 10 years and contribute billions to the for Central Americans coming to the US economy and in taxes yearly, to live in fear to flee civil wars in Honduras, Guatemala as second-class citizens. In particular, the and El Salvador. Though the immigrants network wanted to highlight the need for were in grave danger of being killed if they comprehensive immigration reform that returned to their home countries, the US would offer these immigrants a pathway to government refused to recognize them as citizenship. refugees and deported thousands of asylum seekers. To draw attention to the unjust With the 2016 election steeped in xeno- immigration system and to protect the phobic, racist and nativist rhetoric and an asylum seekers from deportation, churches administration that has promised to detain partnered with immigrant-led organiza- and deport millions of immigrants, congre- tions to participate in civil disobedience gations have further been galvanized to join by openly housing immigrants who were the National Sanctuary Movement. While being targeted for deportation. This drew it is unclear how the changes this admin- national media and political attention to the istration mandates on immigration policy civil wars in Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El and enforcement will play out, the National Salvador, in which the US government was Sanctuary Movement will need to morph deeply complicit, as well as the unjust treat- in strategy and tactic, from what sanctuary ment of asylum seekers fleeing violence. Ul- looked like in the 1980s and even 2016, to fit timately, due to the power of the multitudes the needs of those impacted. It is important of people coming together to shed light on for congregations who want to participate this injustice, the US government granted in sanctuary work to stay proactively en- Temporary Protected Status to the Central gaged and open-minded, so when the need American asylum seekers in 1990, meaning arises, they can respond to movement. they would not be deportable and could obtain work permits, but were not offered Sanctuary for All a path to citizenship. In 1997, the asylum Sanctuary in this time cannot be narrow seekers were finally allowed to apply to and simply for undocumented Central become lawful permanent residents. Americans. With the rhetoric of the current administration, virtually all marginalized Since then, many congregations across communities have come under attack in denominations have continued to answer one form or another. Hate crimes are on the

3 Sanctuary Movement Sanctuary Movement Pledge Principles As people of faith and people of conscience, we pledge to 1. Respect the leadership of resist the newly elected administration’s policy proposals to directly affected people Be steadfast in our adherence target and deport millions of undocumented immigrants and 2. to our own faith traditions discriminate against marginalized communities. We will open 3. Be relentlessly imaginative up our congregations and communities as sanctuary spaces and brave for those targeted by hate, and work alongside our friends, Pledge our highest allegiance 4. to the mandates of our faith families, and neighbors to ensure the dignity and human rights and not to the laws of the land of all people. Created by the Southern Arizona Sanctuary Coalition rise, particularly targeting Muslim, Middle incarceration of Black Americans are being beings—we cannot thrive independently Eastern, and South Asian people. All immi- used to deport undocumented immigrants of others. This is illustrated in the Bible in grants are facing the effects of xenophobic and even lawful permanent residents. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, describing sentiments, regardless of documentation Thus, to end deportations that continue to how we are all individual parts that make status. Protections for LGBTQ people have tear apart communities, one needs also to up the body of Christ: “On the contrary, the been revoked. Transgender people are dis- work to end mass incarceration. Further- members of the body that seem to be weaker are criminated against, sometimes violently, for more, it is important to recognize that on indispensable, and those members of the body merely existing. Mass incarceration, police an individual level, people with multiple that we think less honorable we clothe with brutality, the militarization of law enforce- marginalized identities face challenges that greater honor, and our less respectable members ment and increased surveillance continue are unique due to the intersections of these are treated with greater respect; whereas our to disenfranchise and lead to the deaths of identities (i.e. the sum of the parts produces more respectable members do not need this. But Black people. Furthermore, the poor are in- something that is unique to the parts indi- God has so arranged the body, giving the greater creasingly being denied basic human rights, vidually). For example, Black immigrants honor to the inferior member, that there may be with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance face discrimination distinct from non-Black no dissension within the body, but the members Program, Medicaid, housing vouchers and immigrants and non-immigrant Blacks, and may have the same care for one another. If one many other essential programs that pull are thus disproportionately represented in member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one millions of Americans out of poverty on the immigration detention centers and target- member is honored, all rejoice together with it.” brink of deep cuts. In these circumstances, ed for removal due to the effects of racial (1 Corinthians 12:22-26) we need to be critical and thoughtful about profiling and mass incarceration. LGBTQ who we are willing to provide sanctuary immigrants may have heightened stakes in When we look upon another human, we for, examining how our decisions on who to avoiding deportation due to anti-LGBTQ must see them as indispensable to us and provide sanctuary to may further margin- violence in their countries of origin. Avoid see the sacredness of God in them. This is alize people of a particular religious belief, the temptation to stick to a “single issue” our call to stand with the oppressed – to sexual orientation, gender identity or even story, but rather seek to understand how all see them as an essential part of the Body of criminal status. of these fights are interconnected. Christ with whom we are called to suffer and rejoice together. As you contemplate how you can prac- Being in Solidarity tice sanctuary in your daily life and as a We are called to love our neighbors, Congregations supporting sanctuary have congregation, it is important to keep sight regardless of race, sexuality, religion and been in solidarity with immigrants in of how you can do so holistically. It starts wealth, with no exceptions. We need to be numerous ways, from hosting prayer vigils from understanding how the mechanisms in solidarity with people in and outside of for those deported and the many lives lost of marginalization of various groups are our congregation who are suffering attacks on the perilous journey across the border overlapping and connected. For exam- from our government and society. to writing editorials in the local news in ple, the same policing and surveillance support of immigrants. Solidarity can be as strategies, gang databases and for-profit To be in solidarity requires an acknowl- simple as opening up church facilities for prison companies that have led to the mass edgement that we are interdependent use by the local immigrant rights organi-

4 zation and providing child care for their solidarity requires a long-term commit- chest X-ray! In the same way, in the body of events, or as complex as coordinating the ment, dedication of time and resources, and Christ, the solutions to the crisis immigrants logistics to house someone at the church relationship building. Above all, solidarity are experiencing need to be from immi- who is being targeted for removal. requires putting the people you aim to be in grants themselves who are under attack. solidarity with above yourself. Regardless of how you or your congregation decide to practice sanctuary, being in If the foot is ailing, one would not perform a

PC(USA) General Assembly & Other Statements The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has supported congregations and Presbyterians participating in the Sanctu- ary Movement since its inception in the 1980s. In fact, one of the leaders of the ‘80s movement, the Rev. John Fife of Southside Presby- terian Church in Tucson, Arizona, said “I was the envy of all my colleagues from different denominations during the 1980s because I was a Presbyterian. The Presbyterian Church has a whole history of policies [and] support for congregations that do sanctuary.” The following are the official statements issued by the Office of the General Assembly affirming denominational support.

On Supporting Those Is Sanctuary Legal? 1984 Arrested for Working “Expresses its firm support and encouragement with Central American for these individuals and churches, who, from the If you are thinking about participating Refugees base of their Christian convictions or for humani- in sanctuary, it is worthwhile to consult tarian reasons, have risked imprisonment in order with an attorney about what is legal to save the lives of refugees from Central America and what isn’t. Congregations that offer On Protesting by helping them to avoid being sent back to the sanctuary can certainly be charged with 1985 Clandestine countries they have fled.” the crime of harboring, but could they Government be convicted? The law forbids the act of Surveillance of Church harboring someone in a building who is Meetings known to be remaining in the U.S. in vio- “Reaffirm the guiding theological and ethical lation of the law. Some courts have ruled principles contained in the historical review of that harboring requires that the person 1986 In Support of Refugees Presbyterian policy on immigration and refugee being charged actually hide the person from Central America issues, and commit to rediscover its identity as a who is in violation of the law. Under this and Public Sanctuary church of the stranger: ruling, churches that publicly announce (1) Christians are obligated by the loving will they are providing sanctuary are not in of God to seek to ensure that the basic needs violation because there is no conceal- 1988 On Dealing With of persons for food, clothes, shelter, and safety ment. However, there is also case law Concerns Regarding are met (Matt. 25: 35–40). that defines harboring as providing shel- the Sanctuary (2) Christians believe in the intrinsic worth of ter. If simple shelter with no concealment Movement and each human as a person made in the image of is harboring, then all of the churches of- Refugees God. fering sanctuary and any family member (3) The Christian confession of Jesus Christ as or friend with an undocumented person Lord transforms “strangers” into neighbors within their household is in violation of 1999 Transformation of who are welcomed into our communities. the harboring statute. Churches and Society (4) Churches are called to ministry with refu- Through Encounter gees, asylum seekers, and immigrants, and to For more details about the legality of with New Neighbors public witness on their behalf. sanctuary, with jurisdiction-specific (5) Christians have the responsibility to chal- analysis, take a look at “Welcome and lenge and to shape government policy regard- the Law: When offering rides, providing On the Global Crisis ing refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants. safe-haven, or employment could be 2014 for LGBT People and (6) Love of neighbor requires Christians to prosecuted,” published by the Immigra- Their Families: A seek justice for refugees, asylum seekers, and tion Office of the Office of the General Presbyterian Church immigrants. Assembly, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), (U.S.A.) Response (7) Faithfulness to Christ means Christians and get in touch with immigration always live in tension with national values and attorneys. While discerning your role in policies. sanctuary in regards to law, it is import- Resolution Reaffirming (8) Christians may affirm certain values in na- ant to remember that as Presbyterians, 2016 the Ministry of tional and international life as consistent with our greatest allegiance is to the mandates Sanctuary by their theological vision of human community.” of God, rather than the law of the land. Congregations When the two come in conflict with one another, it is a tension we need to sit and grapple with.

5 A guide to help you Discernment figure how you can Process practice sanctuary

1. Educate yourself 2. Learn from Grassroots Immigration Networks National Day Labor Organizing Net- Learn about, how the history of the US people at risk for work improves the lives of day laborers Immigration System and how it works, the deportation and in the US by protecting and expanding state and experiences of undocumented im- their civil, labor and human rights. See if migrants in America today, how people are start building they have a local partner near you. targeted for deportation and removed, and relationships your own family immigration history. United We DREAM is the largest im- When engaging in sanctuary, it is necessary migrant youth-led organization in the Seek out different reasons people have for you to learn directly from the people nation, with 55 affiliate organizations in argued for why undocumented immigrants who are at risk for deportation, so you 26 states, that organizes and advocates should be offered a pathway to citizenship. should build relationships with them and for the dignity and fair treatment of im- Follow the current administration to keep hear their stories. migrant youth and families. See if they aware of where it stands on immigration have a local partner near you. policy and reform. Seek out stories told by undocumented peo- Fair Immigration Reform Movement is ple. Learn about their experiences and their a national coalition of grassroots organi- Sanctuary work is always local work. Find perspective for what is going on. Remember zations fighting for immigrant rights at out more about the history of immigrants in that undocumented people’s lives are not the local, state and federal level led by 44 your own community. necessarily defined by their documentation organizations across 32 states. status — there is much power and vibrancy Remember that not all undocumented beyond the fear of deportation — and every Not1more Deportation (#Not1More) people are Latinos! There are people of story is different. Also, many immigrants is a collaboration that challenges unjust many races and nationalities that become at risk for deportation actually are docu- immigration laws by reversing unjust undocumented in the US, including 1 in 7 mented. For example, people in the US with policy, building migrant power and cre- Asian immigrants and 1 in 6 Black immi- Temporary Protected Status are legally ating just, inclusive immigration policies. grants. Black immigrants and are deported allowed to reside in the US. However, the at rates higher than other racial groups due federal government may choose to termi- to the overcriminalization of Black people. nate their TPS status, despite many TPS Research, Policy and Resource Centers There are also European undocumented status holders having built their lives in immigrants, most of whom are white and America. Migration Policy Institute is an inde- experience the undocumented status differ- pendent, nonpartisan, nonprofit think ently because they are not racially assumed There are many national groups you can tank dedicated to analyzing the move- to be an immigrant. follow that prioritize the voices of people ment of people worldwide. at risk for deportation. There are also many American Immigration Council pro- research-oriented or legal organizations to motes laws, policies, and attitudes that follow for policy briefs, immigration-related honor immigrants through research and Questions to consider include: tools and research reports. • What countries are the immigrants in policy analysis, litigation and communi- your communities from? cations, and international exchange. Start building relationships with your local • When were the major waves of immi- immigrant-led organizations. See if you Immigrant Defense Project secures jus- gration? What prompted these waves have opportunities to attend their meetings tice for immigrants in by fighting against (pull factors from the US or push factors and volunteer your time and/or resources. deportation and detention through liti- from their countries of origin)? Find your local immigration legal services/ gation, advocacy, providing legal advice, • What are some institutions (e.g. advocacy organizations, and branch out to training, and resources. churches, community centers, restau- local immigration organizing or community rants, supermarkets) that are founda- Immigration Legal Resource Center centers. tions to the immigrant community? works with and educates immigrants, • Are immigrants integrated or segregat- community organizations, and the legal Watch the film Journeying in Hope, which ed from other groups in your commu- sector to build a democratic society that was produced by the Office of the General nity? values the rights of all people. Assembly captures the strife felt by families • What is the overall perception of im- and ministries on the border that are offer- National Immigration Law Center is migrants in your community—positive, ing witness and support in the midst of this dedicated to advancing the rights of negative or otherwise? crisis. Learn more about how Presbyterians low-income immigrants through impact have been offering Sanctuary. litigation, policy analysis and advocacy, and strategic communications.

6 At this stage, start planting the seeds in Making a commitment to stand with your 3. Connect with your congregation to consider sanctuary. immigrant neighbors is a serious one—one people doing Preach about justice issues or meet with that requires constant reflection so you your pastor to discuss incorporating them don’t lose sight of why you are doing this Sanctuary into sermons and other teaching. Engage in the first place. It is easy for this work to individuals, small groups or the entire become more about the logistics of the oper- Connect with the National Sanctuary Move- congregation in prayer about issues related ation than about the people that people you ment and your local sanctuary coalition if to immigration, immigration enforcement, are supporting. one exists. Find a full list and their contact deportation and detention. Host an event information on this Google Map. for people to learn about the struggles of Listen to the podcast Sanctuary Churches their undocumented brothers and sisters, Who Controls the Story? to hear an example Be persistent and patient with connecting perhaps by bringing a speaker in from a of how churches providing sanctuary have to these coalitions. Most of them do not local immigrant-led or immigration legal made missteps in taking control of the have full-time staff whose job is to focus on services organization or hosting a docu- narrative. sanctuary, so feel free to follow-up multiple mentary screening. The goal of this stage times or engage in multiple ways if you is to educate your congregation and gauge Jeanette Vizguerra, who is currently in cannot immediately get a response. The best where congregation members stand on Sanctuary in Colorado shares in the podcast way to get started is to join local coalition issues around immigration. that either churches “don’t understand it or meetings to understand the dynamics of they don’t fully grasp [that I should have these groups. control over my own story]. For exam- 6. Assess the role ple, every Sunday there is a meeting of the church’s immigration committee, and 4. Articulate and capacity of your a lot of the times they would ignore my why you believe congregation decisions. They would want the coalition sanctuary work coordinator to be present before deciding Assess the relationship your congregation on something. And so I have to say, ‘Hey, is important, and currently has with immigrants, and envi- you need to understand that the coordi- why you believe sion the relationship that you or your con- nator is just that—a coordinator. So she’s gregation wants to have with immigrants. the liaison between all of you and all of us. undocumented But we are affected. We make the decision people should be Ask yourself: —and no one else — not even you.’ And so • Are there currently immigrants in your it kinda falls on me to speak up for myself, allowed in the US congregations? Are they in leadership but also for people who are newer at this, roles? Is that part of the vision of your yes they are doing us a favor by giving us To ensure that you and/or your congrega- church? a safe place to stay, but we still get to make tion’s involvement in sanctuary is sustain- • Do you have any services or programs in our own decisions.” able, it is important to reflect on why you a language other than English? are participating in Sanctuary. Being able to • Do you have any outreach programs that She shares her experience is not unique, clearly state your motivation to be a part of involve immigrants or partner with immi- saying, “We have calls every week [with this work is essential to forming a cohesive grant-led groups? the other nine people who are in sanctuary team with a similar vision and also will be a at churches]. A lot of times, we talk about foundation you can ground yourself on, as More questions are available in this ques- these sorts of things—about the frustrations sanctuary can get discouraging, complicat- tionnaire from the Catholic Legal Immi- we have because sometimes our churches ed, and messy. gration Network, Inc to gauge where your are privileged people who want to make congregation is with engaging the immi- decisions about our cases or about how Use this tool to help you reflect on where grant community. For all the of questions to manage our campaigns. It’s a learning you stand. that you answer “no” for, do you envision process for all of us.” your congregation shifting to a place where you can answer “yes” in the future? What As you do this sanctuary work, whether it’s 5. Build a team and steps would your congregation have to take through contributing resources, advoca- to get to that goal? cy, accompaniment or physically hosting start mobilizing someone at your church, it is important to your congregation Not all congregations are called to provid- hear out voices of those like Jeanette and ing physical sanctuary. There are a lot of to give those directly impacted as much Are there other people in your congregation ways to support your immigrant brothers agency as possible about how they want to who are like-minded? Bring them together and sisters. You can find a list of ways you be supported. and think about how you can move your can get involved on the following page. congregation to take action on this issue. This group will need to be committed to this vision of sanctuary for all marginalized 7. Continue in people in your community and needs to be willing to meet frequently, perhaps at least prayerful critical once every two weeks. If possible, include reflection on how leaders from your church in this planning meeting, so you can maintain open commu- your congregation is nication with the wider congregation. in solidarity

7 Defining Sanctuary Broadly

Not all congregations are called to provide physical sanctuary, meaning hosting a person at risk for deportation within the church facility indefinitely and providing for all of their food, meals, and clothing. There are many ways to be in solidarity with immigrants in your community and to work together to create a community that is safer for everyone.

The following are ideas and examples of some actions that churches have already taken.

Use your resources to invest in Build relationships with know of undocumented people who are immigrant communities immigrants detained and need support, visit them at their detention centers and keep track of • Support immigrant-owned businesses. • Partner with immigrant-led organiza- their cases to hold ICE accountable. Identify and support immigrant-owned tions. These organizations look different businesses and those that pay immigrant depending on where you are. Some may • Create a rapid response network. To employees fair wages. be service provider nonprofits, while fight against ICE raids, people have been others may be community centers. Some forming networks that mobilize every • Offer free space for community edu- may be religious institutions, while time a raid is reported. People will show cation events. Finding safe spaces for others may be activist groups. You will up at the site of the raid to hold a prayer immigrants to meet and organize can need to make an active effort and really vigil, film the raid on camera to make often be difficult. You can partner with listen to get a pulse of which groups sure no rights are violated and be a pres- immigrant organizations by offering up immigrants trust and rely on. The local ence to support the family. (step-by-step your space for their events for free. Make immigration legal services agency is a guide) sure to take precautions to not put im- good place to start your search. migrants more at risk—do not publicly • Host Know Your Rights and Family advertise that groups of undocumented • Offer services in languages other than Emergency Preparedness Trainings. immigrants will be at an event or public- English. Linguistic barriers can be sig- What should someone do if ICE shows ly expose the identity of an undocument- nificant for immigrants to come to your up at their door? What rights are offered ed person. congregation. Invest in translation sets to undocumented immigrants? If a fam- for non-English speakers. Read excerpts ily member is detained by ICE, what is • Provide financial support. Fighting your of the sermon in other languages and the plan to make sure the rest of the fami- immigration case can be expensive, on engage in musical worship in other ly is taken care of? The more knowledge top of the overall cost of living. Fund- languages. Make sure to consult native undocumented people have about how raise to cover the costs of legal filing fees, speakers to ensure that you are provid- to respond in these intense situations, the provide microloans or otherwise support ing language services most effectively. safer your community will be. Partner vulnerable immigrant and refugee fam- with legal and advocacy organizations ilies. to offer these workshops. (step-by-step Provide direct support to guide for KYR and Family Preparedness) immigrants Use your voice to fight for pro-immigrant policies • Offer community education. Immigrants Offer or support physical often come to the US without the social sanctuary • Speak out — change the narrative. It is and cultural knowledge that native-born important for non-immigrants to be in- US citizens take for granted. Partner with • Offer physical sanctuary. This means vested in helping others understand why immigrant-led organizations to deter- you are agreeing to house, clothe, and they should support immigrants. Express mine the needs of the community in your feed a person or an entire family for an support immigrants and refugees via area. Some churches have offered English indefinite amount of time. It is a serious social media or write an op-ed or letter classes, registered people to vote, and commitment that may have legal ramifi- to the editor for the local newspaper or encouraged civic engagement. cations. If you are interested, make sure magazine. Be sure to not disclose identi- you have the legal counsel and resources fiable information about undocumented • Host legal clinics. Undocumented necessary. Make sure the person seek- people or groups. immigrants are not guaranteed legal ser- ing sanctuary has a full understanding vices in the US, and getting access to the of what is involved, and that you have • Advocate for pro-immigrant policy. services is often very expensive. There their consent in every step of the process. Federal, state and local policy all affect are also many scams that prey on the Some churches offer sanctuary public- immigrants. Hold a phone bank, rally, fear of undocumented people. Partner ly, hoping that the public scrutiny will or respond to a specific piece of legisla- with local immigration clinics to host free lead to a more favorable outcome, while tion affecting immigrants or refugees. legal clinics. others offer a place to stay privately. This Set up a meeting with a representative needs to be decided on a case-by-case and share with them why you believe • Accompany your Neighbors. Put pres- basis. immigrants should be protected in your sure on Immigration and Customs En- community and what your church is forcement (ICE) and immigration court • Support physical sanctuary. While your doing to support immigrants. judges by accompanying your undocu- congregation may not have the capacity mented neighbors to their ICE check-ins to house someone, you can contribute and court hearings. Even if you have no resources like time, meal and clothing to legal expertise, simply showing up to support people in sanctuary. show your support can put pressure on immigration enforcement officials. If you

8 Biblical Loving our (immigrant) Reflection neighbors. This is a discussion guide for you, your Bible study, Sunday school, congregation, or any other group of Christian people who are con- sidering or are in the process of taking on sanctuary. The guide goes through Scriptures that compel us to love our neighbors (particularly those who are immigrants), illustrate what that call looks like in practice, and ask questions for you to reflect upon as you discern your calling to sanctuary work.

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke all disciples. He says, “I give you a new— com- came to the place and saw him, passed by recount a story in which a learned Jewish mandment, that you love one another. Just on the other side. But a Samaritan while leader poses a question to Jesus — “‘Teach- as I have loved you, you also should love traveling came near him; and when he saw er, which commandment in the law is the one another. By this everyone will know him, he was moved with pity. He went to greatest?’ He said to him, ‘You shall love that you are my disciples, if you have love him and bandaged his wounds, having the Lord your God with all your heart, and for one another” (John 13:34–35). He reiter- poured oil and wine on them. Then he put with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ ates this call later the same evening, adding him on his own animal, brought him to This is the greatest and first command- some illustration. “This is my command- an inn, and took care of him. The next day ment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall ment, that you love one another as I have he took out two denarii, gave them to the love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these loved you. No one has greater love than innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him; and two commandments hang all the law and this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” when I come back, I will repay you whatev- the prophets” (Matthew 22:35–40, Mark (John 15:12–13). er more you spend’” (Luke 10:30–35). 12:28–31, Luke 10:25–28). This is the gospel that Christ brings — that Who in your community is represented by the man stripped, beaten and left half- These ideas weren’t radical to the Jewish we have a new commandment now of dead? audience — both commandments are found living out a sacrificial love for each other, verbatim in the Jewish Torah, with the first comparable to the unconditional love of Who in your community are the priests? The Levites? The Samaritan? commandment being found in Deuteron- Christ that propelled him to die for us on omy 6:4–5 and the second being found in the cross. This, Jesus says, should be what What are some elements of the radical Leviticus 19:18. In the same chapter of Le- Christians are known for. hospitality of the Samaritan? viticus, Moses reiterates the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself with more What does living out this sacrificial love The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. references look like for us, particularly as we claim this parable in his last sermon before he was specificity. Leviticus 19:33–34 reads, “When our immigrant neighbors our friends? an alien resides with you in your land, you assassinated, animating it for our mod- ern-day context. He says,“Now, you know, shall not oppress the alien. The alien who Jesus illustrates this love for us in the we use our imagination a great deal to try resides with you shall be to you as the citi- parable of the Good Samaritan. Though this to determine why the priest and the Levite zen among you; you shall love the alien as is a well-known story, I invite you to read didn’t stop. At times we say they were busy yourself, for you were aliens in the land of this parable again with fresh eyes, thinking going to a church meeting, an ecclesiastical Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” about how this may apply to your own gathering, and they had to get on down to community, undocumented immigrants It is our call to love the immigrants living Jerusalem so they wouldn’t be late for their in our communities, but what does loving and the Sanctuary Movement. meeting. At other times we would speculate your neighbors actually look like? that there was a religious law that one who “A man was going down from Jerusa- was engaged in religious ceremonials was Jesus doesn’t just leave us with the itera- lem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of not to touch a human body 24 hours before tions of Old Testament commandments. In robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and the ceremony. And every now and then we fact, he gives us a new commandment. In went away, leaving him half dead. Now by begin to wonder whether maybe they were the Gospel of John, after Jesus washes his chance a priest was going down that road; not going down to Jerusalem, or down to disciples’ feet at the last supper before his and when he saw him, he passed by on the Jericho, rather, to organize a Jericho Road death on the cross, he imparts this onto his other side. So likewise a Levite, when he Improvement Association. That’s a possi-

9 bility. Maybe they felt it was better to deal Rather, the Samaritan fulfills the command- angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy with the problem from the causal root, ment by elevating the neighbor above him- gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have rather than to get bogged down with an self. This is the radical new commandment prophetic powers, and understand all mys- individual effect.” Jesus talks about in John. teries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not What are some ways you or your congre- When I participate in the Sanctuary Move- have love, I am nothing. If I give away all gation can identify with some of these ment, how can I elevate the humanity and my possessions, and if I hand over my body justifications for passing by a neighbor needs of those I am providing sanctuary in need, and instead being focused on for above my own wants, desires or even so that I may boast, but do not have love, I religious meetings, rule of law or even fears? gain nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:1–3). root causes? When I participate in sanctuary, am I What are actions we can take or actions we asking, “If I stop to help undocumented should avoid so that our involvement in King adds his own take on the parable, people, what will happen to me?” or “If I sanctuary is rooted in love and: saying, “But I’m going to tell you what don’t stop to help undocumented people, • not only speech saying that “we wel- what will happen to them?” my imagination tells me. It’s possible that come immigrants”? those men were afraid. You see, the Jericho • not only gaining knowledge about the Road is a dangerous road. ... It’s a winding, An analysis of this parable would be in- issue? complete without recognizing the tension • not only faith that “it will work out”? meandering road. It’s really conducive for • not only charity or hardship that redi- ambushing. ... In the days of Jesus it came between Jews and Samaritans in Jesus’ rects the attention on ourselves? to be known as the ‘Bloody Pass.’ And you context. Jesus told this parable to a Jewish know, it’s possible that the priest and the audience, in response to the query of a Jew- Rather, this is what love is: “Love is patient; Levite looked over that man on the ground ish scribe. In his time, Jewish people held love is kind; love is not envious or boastful and wondered if the robbers were still Samaritans in contempt, as they deemed or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its around. Or it’s possible that they felt that that Samaritans were not part of God’s own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it the man on the ground was merely faking, chosen people. does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices and he was acting like he had been robbed in the truth. It bears all things, believes all and hurt in order to seize them over there, However, in this story, two Jewish leaders things, hopes all things, endures all things” lure them there for quick and easy seizure. passed by the opportunity to love their (1 Corinthians 13:4–7). And so the first question that the priest neighbors, and it is the Samaritan, the asked, the first question that the Levite lower on the social, or perhaps even racial, What are actions we can take or actions we should avoid so that our involvement in asked was, ‘If I stop to help this man, what hierarchy that fulfills the commandments of sanctuary is rooted in: will happen to me?’ Jesus. Jesus says there is much to learn from • love that is patient and not focused on the conduct of the Samaritan, and much to efficiency or process? “But then the Good Samaritan came by, and be unlearned about Jewish traditions of reli- • love that is kind and not focused on results? gious purity, righteousness or even safety. he reversed the question: ‘If I do not stop to • love that doesn’t insist on our own way help this man, what will happen to him?’ and sideline the ones we are loving? Who in your community does mainstream That’s the question before you tonight. Not, • love that endures and is hopeful, even society embrace, due to race, class, immi- when circumstances are not as desired? ‘If I stop to help the sanitation workers, gration status, gender, etc.? Who is looked what will happen to my job?’ Not, ‘If I stop down upon? It is often easy to forget why we are called to help the sanitation workers, what will When you participate in sanctuary work, to love our neighbor, and the radical vision happen to all of the hours that I usually who do you think the “hero” of your story of love we are called to. Continue to medi- spend in my office every day and every is — a “Jew” or a “Samaritan”? tate on these questions regularly so we can week as a pastor?’ The question is not, ‘If What are things you may need to unlearn ensure our work in sanctuary is focused on I stop to help this man in need, what will to fully love your immigrant neighbors fully embracing the people we are called to happen to me?’ The question is, ‘If I do not and participate in sanctuary work? love rather than ourselves. stop to help the sanitation workers, what will happen to them?’ That’s the question.” In a letter to the early church of Corinth, Paul gives us good food for thought about What we learn is that the Samaritan wasn’t this love to which we are called. His state- just loving his neighbor as himself through ment begins by reminding us of what love charity. The Samaritan doesn’t even fulfill is not. the commandment through his hospitality, though that’s important and necessary. “If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of

10 Narrative The stories of people in Sanctuary

Jeanette Vizguerra is a leader with We Belong Together, a group that campaigns on immigration Jeanette Vizguerra policy. This excerpt is from an op-ed published in The New York Times on February 24, 2017. Metro Denver Sanctuary Coalition

This year is my 20th in Denver, but I may piece of paper that recognizes our equal Mexico. have to spend it in the basement of the First humanity. Unitarian Church instead of my own home. My mother died while I was on the plane. When I wake up in the room set up for me I decided not to hide my battle against I made it just for her funeral. In April 2013, here, my first thought every day is who will deportation but to fight publicly to draw I returned to the United States, walking pick up my children from school. attention to the unfairness of the system. I across mountains and desert until my feet wanted to inspire my community to step were destroyed. I was detained by Border Last week, Immigration and Customs out of the shadows and raise its voices. In Patrol in Texas. While I was held there, I Enforcement refused to extend my stay 2011, a judge denied my application for called my family and activist friends to tell of deportation. I sought sanctuary in the cancellation of removal, saying that my them what had happened. Thanks to my church because, like that of millions of other family’s suffering if I was deported would community and my lawyer, I was released immigrants, my future in this country was be neither extreme nor unusual. I appealed with a stay of removal and an order of thrown into doubt. Thanks to President the ruling. supervision. That stay was renewed five Trump’s new policy, every undocumented times. person is a priority for eviction from this country. My sixth stay of removal expired this month. On Feb. In my years here, I have wit- 15, I had a check-in scheduled nessed many injustices and have with I.C.E. officials. But, after been involved in community seeing how, in Arizona, I.C.E. organizing against them, includ- had arrested and immediately ing as a co-host of a radio show deported another mother the here. After paying taxes for two week before, I followed my decades, spending thousands of intuition and sought sanctu- dollars on my immigration case ary. When my lawyer and the and fighting my deportation for pastor at the First Unitarian eight years, I am not giving up Church went to the appoint- now. ment in my place, I.C.E. agents were waiting, ready to In 2009, I was stopped by a arrest me. police officer, and that changed everything. The inspection Now that President Trump sticker on my car had expired, has unveiled his plan to crim- and I had been unable to renew inalize us and make us live in it. Before the officer asked for my license, he My three younger children, aged 6, 10 and fear, entire communities are under threat. said, “Are you legal or illegal in this coun- 12, are all citizens (I also have an adult My people here in Denver are keeping their try?” I knew my rights and answered, “I am daughter who has Deferred Action for heads held high. The nation saw this spirit not going to answer that question.” Childhood Arrivals status); my husband is in the Day Without Immigrants actions, and He arrested me, and while searching my a noncitizen. What would become of them we have allies countrywide, in schools and bag found documents that bore my real if I was deported? What I see is that when faith communities, on farm fields and in name and date of birth but a made-up my children are with me they feel safe, and restaurants. Social Security number. I needed these to their grades and self-esteem improve. But apply for a third job — on top of the two, as because of the fear of separation, they have Their example inspires me to continue the a house cleaner and a janitor, I was already also received treatment for depression and fight until we are all able to walk the street doing. I pleaded guilty to a third-degree anxiety. There are millions of children like freely. But it is not easy to be so public, and misdemeanor for attempted possession of a them in the United States. — grateful as I am for the support of the forged instrument. Sanctuary Coalition — it is hard to live in a While I was waiting for my appeal proceed- church instead of my home. Perhaps you’ve To many, this sounds like a serious charge, ings, in September 2012 I received news that seen the hashtag #JeanetteBelongsHere. The but what some might call criminal is a ques- my mother was gravely ill. After so many United States is the country of my children. tion of survival for most of the people who years, I had to say goodbye or something I will stay here because it is my home. I will build your homes and keep them clean. inside me would die. Leaving my children not leave. You accept our labor but won’t provide the with their father, I made the journey to

11 “I’m taking sanctuary for my own life, my family, and the entire immigrant community. I have lived Angela Navarro in fear for over 10 years and I can’t continue living this way.” After living in Sanctuary for 58 days, New Sanctuary Movement Angela Navarro stopped her final deportation order! To commemorate the occassion, Angela wrote a of Philadelphia community prayer to end deportations and support those in Sanctuary.

Por todos que todavía no son libres por Por la solidaridad de los hermanos. tener una orden de deportación. [For solidarity as brothers and sisters.] [For all who are not free because of a depor- Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! tation order.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Por la fe que nos une. [For the faith that unites us.] Para que Inmigración cancele todas las Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! deportación. [So that Immigration cancels all deporta- Para crear comunidades mas sanas. tions.] [To create healthier communities.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos!

Por el sufrimiento de las familias. En los pasos de Dr. Martin Luther King y [For the suffering of families.] todos los líderes que luchen por los dere- Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! chos civiles. [In the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Por los niños que son afectados por la de- and all leaders for civil rights.] portación de sus padres. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Damos gracias a Dios porque ganamos la [For the children affected by the deportation campana de Angela. We thank God because of their parents.] Porque todos somos hijos de Dios y merece- we won Angela’s campaign. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! mos mejores oportunidades. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! [Because we’re all children of God and [We’ll keep fighting, justice for all!] Por los niños que siguen cruzando la fron- deserve better opportunities.] tera. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Por todos los que se unieron a luchar por mi [For the kids who continue to cross the campana. border.] Nos mantendremos luchando hasta que [For everyone who united in my campaign] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! ganemos igualdad, paz, y no más deporta- Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! ciones. Por los que mueren tratando de cruzar la [We will keep fighting until we achieve Porque la campana fue un éxito. frontera. equality, peace, and an end to deporta- [Because the campaign was a success.] [For those who die trying to cross the tions.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! desert.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Por vivir tanto tiempo en una desobediencia civil sin poder salir de la iglesia. Para los niños que no tienen oportunidad. Read about her campaign here. [For living so long in civil disobedience [For the children that don’t have any oppor- without leaving the church.] tunities.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos!

Para todos en Santuario. Para terminar con la violencia en Philadel- [For everyone in Sanctuary.] phia, Honduras y todo el mundo. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! [To end violence in Philadelphia, Honduras, and throughout the world.] Por Rosa en Santuario en Tucson. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! [For Rosa in Sanctuary in Tucson.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Para que haya paz y tranquilidad. [So that there’s peace and tranquility.] Por Misael en Santuario en Phoenix. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! [For Misael in Sanctuary in Phoenix.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Para que nos traten igual. [So that we’re all treated equally.] Por Arturo en Santuario en Denver. Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! [For Arturo in Sanctuary in Denver.] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Para que haya leyes justas. [So that there are just laws.] Por vivir 11 años en las sombras por su Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! orden de deportación. [For living 11 years in the shadows because Para que todo mundo se una a la lucha. of a deportation order.] [So that everyone joins in the struggle] Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos! Seguimos luchando, justicia para todos!

12 Education & Resources

What are some resources other churches Protecting Immigrant Community Toolkit: Municipal Policy to Confront Mass Deportation and Criminalization in sanctuary have utilized? Center for Popular Democracy, March 2017, 72 pages This is a comprehensive, up-to-date guide to what it means to Find resources on the National Sanctuary Movement website. be a “Sanctuary City” and details mechanisms by which ICE can They are in the process of updating them, so the most updated collaborate with local law enforcement. This guide also explains versions will be there. Make sure to take a look at the “Inter- how mass incarceration is a driver of deportation. faith Sanctuary Toolkit” that gives you an overview of what the process of physical sanctuary looks like and the “Vigil Liturgy A Brief Guide for Sharing Reports of Raids on Social Media resource” that contains bilingual prayers, songs, Scriptures, and Desis Rising Up and Moving (DRUM), February 2017, 1 page sermon/bible study guides about immigration and sanctuary Misinformation is harmful to communities, amplifies fear, and strains limited resources. This one-page guide covers how to re- Watch this webinar produced by the Synod of the Northeast and sponsibly verify, share, and report information about immigration the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship. raids so we can be organized and help communities best protect themselves. Read a guide to setting up a rapid response network to respond to ICE raids in your community. Read more about this approach in action with the New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia. What are some resources to help myself and people in our community know our How can you or your church take part rights? in defending your community from unjust immigration enforcement? Immigrant Defense Project: Train the Trainer Workshop Immigrant Defense Project, March 2017, two-hour video, 144 slides Learn, Share, Fight Back: The Short Immigration Guide to How This workshop answers questions such as: What rights do indi- Arrests & Convictions Separate Families viduals have during an ICE raid, when questioned or searched Immigrant Defense Project, 2014, 10 pages at the airport, or during an interaction with immigration or law Many of us know family members and friends who have been enforcement at home or in public? How can you help your clients, detained and deported because of arrests and convictions. Learn community members and others invoke their rights and remain about what changes need to be made to our immigration laws to safe? What are the tactics that immigration and federal law fight back and keep our families together. enforcement use during an arrest, investigation or encounter and how can individuals protect themselves? Defend Against ICE Raids and Community Arrests: A Toolkit to Prepare and Protect Our Communities Know Your Rights: When Stopped by Police, Immigration Immigrant Defense Project, Center for Constitutional Rights, 2017, Agents, or FBI Entire Toolkit: 212 pages, Without Appendices: 44 pages American Civil Liberties Union, 2017, 1 page, Video, Multilingual Drawing on wisdom gained from the Bush and Obama eras, this is the first comprehensive guide and organizing resource to fight Raids Watch: Know Your Rights back against the Trump administration’s efforts to criminalize American Civil Liberties Union, 2017, 1 page, Video, Multilingual communities and deport millions of people. It’s a very comprehensive explanation of how ICE is structured and operates, what Asian Americans Advancing Justice: Know Your Rights Re- people at risk for deportation can do to be prepared, and what sources communities can do to defend from and respond to ICE raids AAAJ, 2017, 1 page, Videos, Cards, Multilingual (Asian Languages) Appendices include sources, summaries of reports of ICE arrests reported to the Immigrant Defense Project, and narratives of specific people targeted for deportation that had mass media What are some ways a person who is at coverage. risk for deportation can do to prepare Mijente: Community Defense Zone Guide in case anything happens (Family & MIjente, February 2017, 30 pages Financial Preparedness)? This document lays out a roadmap for setting up Community Defense Zone campaigns in local communities. The templates are Family Preparedness Plan meant to be adaptable for small towns and big cities, relevant to Immigrant Legal Resource Center, March 2017, 14 pages red states and blue states, and meant to get us beyond our usual Every family should have a Family Preparedness Plan to help circles. This guide is best paired with other “Know Your Rights” reduce the stress of the unexpected. This packet helps everyone materials. create such a plan, regardless of immigration status. However,

13 because of the additional challenges immigrant and mixed status families face, there is additional advice for immigrants.

Know Your Rights: Financial Safety National Council of La Raza, March 2017, 5 pages This checklist is designed to help you prepare if you are con- cerned that you may have to leave the country without warning. It includes a list of your financial rights and steps to take for your financial security.

How can you support people who are detained or have deportation proceedings?

Detainee Support Program Black Alliance for Justice Immigration, February 2017, 8 pages This toolkit helps engage and educate Black Immigrant Network members, directly impacted people and allies with information needed to navigate visits to immigrant detention centers in the United States, and to help Black-led organizations start visitation program. It is also a helpful guide more generally on how to navigate the immigration detention system.

Deportation Defense: A Guide for Members of Congress and Other Elected Officials United We Dream, June 2014, 55 pages This manual helps to inform members of Congress and other elected officials about the role that they can play in stopping the deportation of their constituents and other community members. The manual provides a step-by-step process on how to successfully intervene in these situations. Members of Congress and other elected officials have successfully advocated for individuals in removal proceedings for years and continue to employ this process to help immigrant communities even today. This is also a useful resource for community advocates and people in deportation proceedings seeking support from their elected officials.