Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has laid off 120 employees, due to a suspension of federal funding following an executive order by President Donald Trump that halted the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. The layoffs primarily affected refugee services staff. In a statement to KHOU 11, the organization said, "The loss of federal funding is forcing a reduction of 120 staff," while stating its commitment to continuing humanitarian services.
A rally titled "From Houston with Love" took place east of downtown Houston, where demonstrators gathered to show support for immigrants amid ongoing layoffs and policy concerns. The event was organized by Cesar Espinosa with FIEL. "What we wanted to do today is show solidarity, demonstrate that Houston, the USA is a vibrant multiculturally ethnic community and together we are showing Houston what real solidarity is about," Espinosa said in an interview with Click2Houston. Participants, including rapper Trae Tha Truth and Bishop James Dixon of the Houston NAACP, voiced concerns about policies impacting the immigrant community.
President Trump’s executive order has resulted in legal action, with the International Refugee Assistance Project filing a lawsuit challenging the suspension of refugee admissions and the funding freeze. Rachel Levitan of HIAS told KHOU 11 that “it’s really an opportunity to assert that the U.S. really is a place that welcomes refugees, and that does so with compassion.” Anne Kennedy, a Houston-area immigration attorney, noted, “You are seeing some panic, and unfortunately, you’re really seeing some real people who are being hurt in the process.” The lawsuit’s outcome may affect refugee policies and the organizations assisting them.
