Controversy Surrounds Refugee Resettlement as Afrikaners Arrive Amid Afghan Family Struggles

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff   

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering the USA

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Image Source: Chris Kenning

Yasmin Aguilar, a refugee from Afghanistan resettled in Boise, Idaho, faces renewed challenges as her relatives remain stranded in Pakistan, unable to join her due to the suspension of the U.S. refugee program under President Donald Trump. This suspension has left many families, including Aguilar's, in limbo while the administration expedited the arrival of 59 Afrikaners from South Africa, whom Trump claims are victims of racial discrimination.

Aguilar, 54, believes that all individuals at risk should have the opportunity to seek safety, including the newly arrived Afrikaners. However, she emphasizes that Afghan refugees who supported U.S. efforts deserve equal consideration. Her hopes for a fair system were dampened when a federal judge recently limited refugee admissions to just 160 individuals with travel arranged shortly after Trump took office, leaving many others in precarious situations.

The Afrikaners, part of a minority group that once ruled during apartheid, arrived at Dulles airport on May 12. While some, like Will Hartzenberg, shared their tragic histories, the move has drawn criticism for the preferential treatment of one group over others who have waited years for resettlement. The Episcopal Church announced it would cease working with the federal government on refugee resettlement, citing the unfairness of the situation.

Agencies assisting the Afrikaners are providing the same services available to any new refugee, including housing and employment assistance. In North Carolina, groups are helping furnish apartments for Afrikaner families, while in Alabama, individuals like Errol Langton share their experiences of hostility and financial struggles.

Despite the arrival of the Afrikaners, the Department of Homeland Security plans to end Temporary Protected Status for Afghans, claiming improved conditions—a point of contention for many Afghans, including Aguilar.

Eskinder Negash, president of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, hopes the admissions will signal a reopening of the U.S. refugee program for others in need. However, over 100,000 individuals remain stranded in the refugee pipeline, with many awaiting resettlement.

As the situation unfolds, Aguilar and other advocates continue to call for a fair and equitable refugee system that addresses the needs of all those seeking safety.