Church World Service is deeply committed to immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers and other forcibly displaced persons. Through both direct service and advocacy, we stand with immigrants and refugees, together building stronger, more welcoming communities.
Our advocacy is driven by our experience on the ground. We work in solidarity with impacted communities and in partnership with other faith-based and secular partners. Our policy positions are formed by the expertise, insight and concerns of our international and domestic programs.
CWS advocates with the U.S. Congress and Executive Branch for policies to reunite separated families, help displaced persons abroad, resettle and integrate refugees, and ensure that the rights of immigrants are respected. Concurrently, we work with our local offices, affiliates and partners to build grassroots movements in support of the rights of immigrants and refugees on local, state and national levels.
Get connected!
- Sign up for CWS “Speak Out” Alerts to receive up-to-date information on important policy decisions that impact the lives of refugees and immigrants.
- Become a fan of the CWS Immigrants & Refugees Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
- Learn more about the coalitions through which CWS works, including Refugee Council USA, the Interfaith Immigration Coalition, Reform Immigration for America, InterAction, and the International Council of Voluntary Agencies.
Recent Actions, Statements and Resources
Contact Us
CWS Washington, D.C., office
110 Maryland Avenue, NE, Suite 404
Washington, DC 20002
Jen Smyers, Associate Director, Immigration and Refugee Policy
jsmyers@churchworldservice.org / 202.481.6935
Jason Knapp, International Refugee Protection Issues
jknapp@churchworldservice.org / 202.481.6938
Immigrants' Rights
CWS believes the U.S. needs an immigration system that keeps families together, protects the rights of all workers, and allows aspiring Americans to earn their legal status. >>
State Immigration Bills
Throughout the country, many faith leaders and CWS offices and affiliates are working to advance immigrant and refugee rights at local, state and national levels. >>
Refugee Policy Reform
CWS works to identify and encourage thoughtful improvements to the refugee program, which saves lives and offers hope to some of the most vulnerable. >>
Toolkits and Resources
Multimedia resources, including issues-focused and faith-based resources, for advocates for the rights of refugees and immigrants. >>
