After reversing Trump-era cuts, Biden has revamped the refugee system. What lies ahead in an election year?

The heartwarming story of a Congolese family’s journey to America is a testament to the resilience and hope of refugees seeking a better life. In Columbia, South Carolina, the Kashindi family, consisting of Kaaskile, his wife, son, and brother-in-law, recently arrived in the United States after spending years in a refugee camp in Tanzania.

Upon their arrival, the family was greeted by church volunteers who had prepared a two-bedroom apartment for them, complete with quilts, toys for their son, and a translator to help them navigate their new surroundings. The family expressed their gratitude and excitement at the opportunity to start fresh in a new country.

This heartwarming scene is becoming more common as the American refugee program experiences a resurgence under the Biden administration. After years of cutbacks, President Joe Biden has pledged to admit 125,000 refugees this year, the highest number in over three decades.

Despite the divisive nature of immigration in American politics, many communities and employers have welcomed refugees with open arms, recognizing the valuable contributions they bring to society. The resettlement process involves thorough vetting and support from a network of agencies to help refugees integrate into their new communities and eventually become citizens.

The story of the Kashindi family is just one example of the countless refugees who have found hope and opportunity in America. As the refugee program continues to grow, it serves as a beacon of compassion and humanity in a world often marked by conflict and division.