Civil and Human Rights Coalition: Congress Must Take a Stand for Diversity Visa Program

WASHINGTON—In response to President Trump’s call to terminate the Diversity Visa Program, Vanita Gupta, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement:

“As New Yorkers and the country mourns yesterday’s terrible tragedy, President Trump continues to show his true colors through his response. By calling for an end to the Diversity Visa Program, Trump demonstrates that he is, yet again, willing to exploit horrific events to advance his political agenda. We should not sow hate, discrimination, and xenophobia toward those who come here – especially after the extensive vetting under this program – in search of better opportunities.

The civil and human rights coalition will not allow our nation to be divided, especially in times of a national tragedy. We will stand together against the actions of this administration as it advances xenophobic policies. And we call on Congress to stand up for the Diversity Visa Program. America must remain a beacon of hope for those who seek a better future.”

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Conference works toward an America as good as its ideals. For more information on The Leadership Conference and its member organizations, visit www.civilrights.org.