The recent U.S. visa ban for South Sudanese citizens has sparked concern in Syracuse, particularly among its large South Sudanese community. Chol Majok, a Syracuse City Councilor, criticizes the policy for its negative impact on residents, including scholarship students and families. He argues that the ban is overreaching and calls for a more logical approach from the federal government. South Sudanese officials also dispute the fairness of the U.S. actions.
In response to the recent U.S. decision to revoke all visas for South Sudanese citizens, concerns are emerging in Syracuse, which is home to a significant South Sudanese population. Notably, Chol Majok, who made history as the first refugee elected to the Syracuse City Council, is advocating for a reversal of this policy.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the visa cancellation due to South Sudan’s failure to accept deportees in a timely manner. In an effort to maintain bilateral relations with the U.S., South Sudanese officials announced the re-entry of Congolese national Makula Kintuthe, who had faced deportation for illegal use of travel documents.
Majok expressed understanding of U.S. border protection imperatives but criticized the resulting deportations of individuals not even from South Sudan, which exacerbate travel uncertainties. He highlighted the troubling impact on South Sudanese scholarship students and athletes in the U.S.
He condemned the broad visa ban, labeling it as an overzealous policy. Concerned residents are reaching out to Majok regarding the fates of their family members, leading him to deem the State Department’s actions as unacceptable.
Moreover, Majok emphasized that recalling visas contradicts American values, particularly in the context of humanitarian issues. He highlighted the importance of available resources for refugees adjusting to life in Syracuse and stressed the need for a rational approach by federal authorities on this matter.
South Sudanese officials also condemned the U.S. policy as unjust, citing their cooperation in other deportation cases. The U.S. expressed a willingness to reconsider the visa revocation once full cooperation from South Sudan is established.
The cancellation of visas for South Sudanese citizens has raised significant concerns, particularly among the residents of Syracuse where many South Sudanese individuals reside. Chol Majok’s advocacy highlights the adverse effects of such policies, which threaten the wellbeing of students and deportees alike. It is essential for the federal government to reassess and adopt a more equitable approach in their immigration policies towards South Sudan.
Original Source: spectrumlocalnews.com
