One common misconception is that our existing asylum procedure offers an adequate solution to this problem. Political asylum is appropriate for people who can demonstrate a direct threat to themselves as individuals. Many Salvadorans and Nicaraguans may be unable to demonstrate that they face a specific threat to their safety if deported. Yet they will be at risk if they are sent back to countries which are torn by violence. Extended voluntary departure is a more appropriate status for many of these individuals. Our Nations treatment of Central American refugees has aroused deep concern in the congressional district that I represent. Many churches. organizations. and individuals have been involved in efforts to assist refugees. The Seattle City Council has declared Seattle a "City of Sanctuary." The people of Washingtons Seventh District want our Nation to live up to its historic commitment to refugees. They know that extended voluntary departure status has been granted to people from Afghanistan. Cambodia.
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deported refugees