No matter what we believe or where we call home, all of us  share  the desire to provide for our families in safety and security. But in one of his first acts in office, former President Trump denied tens of thousands of travelers this chance by signing the first of three immigration bans targeting Muslim-majority countries. He later expanded this ban to include several African countries, causing untold harm to countless families. 

On day one of his presidency, President Biden issued an executive order rescinding the Muslim and African bans. Interfaith Alliance celebrated this historic measure along with the thousands of travelers separated from their families by these unjust bans. While an important first step, more action is needed to restore America’s legacy as a beacon of opportunity for all. Now, Congress must do its part to protect Americans from future discrimination.

Congress must pass the NO BAN Act to prohibit religious discrimination in immigration.  

Today, the House Judiciary Committee voted to advance the NO BAN Act (H.R. 1333) for consideration by the House of Representatives. This critical piece of legislation strengthens the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of religion, and restores the separation of powers by limiting overly broad executive authority to issue future travel bans. Now, Congress must pass the NO BAN Act to protect against religious discrimination. 

Upon the NO BAN Act’s first introduction on April 10, 2019, Interfaith Alliance joined a diverse coalition of nearly 400 civil rights, faith, national security and community organizations to support this historic legislation. Since then, our national network of advocates has continued to fight to see the NO BAN Act passed into law. 

Immigration is a matter of religious freedom. 

Religious freedom and equal treatment under the law are nonpartisan issues. This is an opportunity for our leaders to send a strong message to the American people and the world that whether and how someone prays should not dictate whether they can pursue the American dream. It is time for Congress to protect true religious freedom by passing the NO BAN Act. 

Learn more about Interfaith Alliance’s work to protect religious minorities.