The U.S. has revoked all visas for South Sudanese citizens, prompting concern from the Syracuse community, including councilor Chol Majok. He criticizes the policy for impacting individuals who are contributing positively to society. Majok advocates for a reassessment of the policy to support families and uphold American values.
A recent policy by the United States to revoke all visas for South Sudanese citizens has raised significant concerns within the Syracuse community, particularly among its large South Sudanese population. Chol Majok, who is running for mayor and has made history as the first refugee elected to the Syracuse City Council, expressed alarm at the implications of this decision.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Saturday that the U.S. would rescind visas for South Sudanese nationals, citing the country’s failure to accept deportees promptly. This decision follows the deportation of Congolese national Makula Kintuthe, which South Sudanese officials stated they would allow in order to maintain friendly relations with the U.S.
In an interview on Wednesday, Majok acknowledged the need for the U.S. to ensure border security, yet he criticized the new policy for enabling the deportation of individuals who are not South Sudanese nationals, thereby injecting uncertainty into travel plans. He underscored that South Sudan is still recovering from a prolonged civil war, which has exacerbated existing political tensions.
Majok highlighted the struggles faced by South Sudanese nationals in the U.S., including students and athletes whose opportunities are jeopardized by this overzealous policy. He described the situation as troubling, particularly for those performing well academically and athletically, contributing positively to both their community and home country.
He criticized the broad nature of the visa ban, asserting that it severely restricts the movement of individuals from South Sudan. The mayoral candidate reports that he is fielding numerous calls from anxious residents concerned about their families and the ramifications of the policy. Majok condemned the state department’s actions as unacceptable, emphasizing the American values of compassion and support for those in need.
Majok maintains familial ties in South Sudan, advocating for increased resources to support refugees within Syracuse. He expressed a desire for the federal government to reconsider this policy, advocating for a more logical and humanitarian approach. South Sudanese officials have also decried the U.S. visa reversal as unjust, arguing that they have cooperated with other deportation cases. The U.S. may reconsider this decision contingent upon full cooperation from South Sudan.
In summary, the recent visa ban on South Sudanese citizens by the United States has elicited strong reactions from local leaders like Chol Majok, who assert that the policy will negatively impact families and individuals striving for better futures. Majok calls for a reevaluation of the policy, emphasizing the importance of supporting and accommodating individuals from South Sudan who contribute positively to American society. The ongoing dialogue surrounding this issue reflects broader themes of humanitarian assistance and international relations, necessitating careful consideration by U.S. officials.
Original Source: spectrumlocalnews.com
