Who’s an asylum seeker? An asylum seeker is a person from another country who has entered the asylum process in the United States.
How is an asylum seeker different from a refugee? While both asylees and refugees need to prove their status and apply for protection under United States law, refugees request protection and are given permission to enter the U.S. while still overseas, whereas asylum seekers request protection while already in the U.S. or upon arrival.
We have people already living in Rutland County who need help. Why should we help outsiders? We have enough to help everyone. And everyone is lifted up when we help each other. The asylum-seekers will help lift up their neighbors once they arrive, enriching all of our lives.
Can asylum-seekers get jobs? Only after 180 days have passed without a decision on the applicant’s status, or after the asylum seeker’s case has been won.
Talking points on asylum seekers: https://bridgetorutland.com/2021/06/08/speaking-up-for-asylum/
Handbook for Hosts and Volunteers: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SsBwDzkbvHuXe6KgQS_SRE7Fr–yRRy6/view?usp=sharing