Group calls on Canada to help people stranded by US travel ban

In response to US President Donald Trump’s executive order severely restricting Muslim immigrants and refugees from entering the United States, a Canadian organization plans to hold a press conference and gathering in Vancouver.

The Concerned Canadian Clergy for Refugees (CCCFR) is holding the event at 9:30 am, Sunday, January 29, at downtown’s Jack Poole Plaza.

The group is “calling upon the Canadian Government and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to immediately extend Transit Visas for individuals who have American visa in hand, having passed American security clearance, and who are stranded at American ports of entry only because of the Executive Order,” the CCCFR said in a release.

Canada and the US “have agreed to protect refugees,” the CCCFR added. “Given that these security screened refugees would have been able to disembark their flight for new lives in the USA, and are not considered security risks, Canada should help and help now.”

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In addition, the group said, Canada should “favourably consider” temporary transit visas to Canada for individuals within this group who have been recognized as refugees by the United States.

“We are reminded of our nation’s history when ‘none is too many’ was our response to Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Germany,” the CCCFR added. “Since those dark days following World War II, Canada has made great strides to be a beacon of hope to refugees seeking safety from around the world In this moment of humanitarian urgency Canada must shine our light brighter and be a beacon of hope to the huddled masses yearning to breath free.”

CCCFR gathering in Vancouver

When: Sunday, January 29

Time: 9:30 am

Where: Jack Poole Plaza