Welcoming the stranger, today

Refugee resettlement faces significant challenges as political narratives increasingly frame newcomers as threats rather than individuals in need of protection. Distinguishing between refugees—those fleeing persecution or war—and general immigrants is essential for understanding the legal and humanitarian frameworks governing global displacement. Faith traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Hinduism, provide a moral foundation for "welcoming the stranger," emphasizing that hospitality toward the vulnerable is a core human obligation. Beth Oppenheim of HIAS and Krish O'Mara Vignarajah of Global Refuge highlight how their organizations leverage these values to counter divisive rhetoric and provide essential services. Despite government policies that prioritize specific groups or restrict entry, grassroots solidarity and community-based advocacy remain vital for maintaining a commitment to human dignity and ensuring that the tradition of sanctuary persists in modern society.