Two North Carolina Lawmakers Urge Marco Rubio to Reverse Visa Revocation Plans for South Sudanese Nationals
Two North Carolina lawmakers have called on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to reconsider his recent decision to revoke visas for South Sudanese nationals residing in the United States. The lawmakers, Representative Alma Adams and Senator Jeff Jackson, argue that this policy could unfairly impact South Sudanese individuals living in North Carolina, including students, professionals, and families who have built lives in the United States under Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
The controversy began when the U.S. government, citing national security concerns, announced that it would revoke visas for South Sudanese passport holders due to the country’s failure to comply with U.S. repatriation requirements. According to U.S. officials, South Sudan had not accepted the return of deported individuals in a timely manner, prompting the government to take action to protect American interests. The policy, however, has drawn criticism for its potential to penalize innocent South Sudanese citizens who have nothing to do with the government’s failures.
The revocation of visas applies to individuals who are in the U.S. on various visa categories, including those on work and student visas. The impact on students, in particular, has been a focal point of the lawmakers’ concerns. North Carolina is home to a significant number of South Sudanese nationals who are enrolled in universities and contribute to the state’s workforce. Representative Adams and Senator Jackson, both of whom represent diverse districts, have expressed worry that this policy could lead to unnecessary disruptions for individuals who are working hard to build better futures.
In a letter sent to Secretary Rubio, Adams and Jackson emphasized that many South Sudanese nationals who have been granted TPS are not responsible for the actions of their home country’s government. They argue that this blanket decision punishes innocent people who are simply trying to live and work in the U.S. without being linked to the conflict or diplomatic failures of South Sudan’s leadership. The lawmakers also pointed out that many South Sudanese nationals are integral to the academic, cultural, and economic fabric of North Carolina.
“We cannot let policies that penalize innocent individuals be allowed to stand,” said Senator Jackson in a statement. “Many of these people came to the United States seeking safety and opportunities, and now they face the threat of being torn from their families and communities.”
One of the most high-profile cases is that of a South Sudanese student athlete at Duke University, whose future could be jeopardized by the visa revocation. The student, who has been a star on the basketball team and is considered a top NBA draft prospect, could face deportation despite having no connection to the South Sudanese government’s failures.
The lawmakers also expressed concern about the humanitarian implications of the visa policy. South Sudan remains a country embroiled in conflict, and many of the individuals impacted by the revocation are unlikely to find safety or stability if forced to return. In light of the ongoing instability in South Sudan, Adams and Jackson are urging the U.S. government to find a more nuanced approach that takes into account the individual circumstances of South Sudanese nationals in the U.S.
As of now, it remains unclear whether Secretary Rubio will respond to the lawmakers’ request. However, the pressure is mounting, with local advocates and organizations expressing solidarity with the South Sudanese community in North Carolina. The next steps will likely depend on the ongoing dialogue between lawmakers and the U.S. Department of State.
In conclusion, the decision to revoke visas for South Sudanese nationals has sparked heated debate, with many calling for a more compassionate and targeted approach. As this story continues to unfold, the calls from North Carolina lawmakers for a reversal of the policy reflect broader concerns about fairness, justice, and the well-being of individuals who have already been through significant hardship.
