Press Statement | November 6, 2024
Arlington, Va. – Following yesterday’s U.S. election results and potential policy changes, we want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to our core humanitarian values. At ECDC, we remain steadfast in our belief that the true strength of the United States lies in its openness, diversity, and dedication to human dignity and opportunity for all.
While we respect and honor the voice of the American people, we firmly believe that humanitarian values are non-partisan. Our commitment to serving newcomers, advocating for their rights, and upholding the principles of compassion and support will remain as strong as ever. ECDC will continue to stand as a dedicated ally for those who are vulnerable and without a voice.
Over the years, the American public has opened their arms to newcomers. We have welcomed thousands from vulnerable communities and seen them enrich the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the neighborhoods they now call home. These new neighbors have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and the power of the human spirit—qualities that have inspired the welcoming communities, workplaces, and classrooms they have joined. They have repeatedly proven that, regardless of religious belief, language, or background, all people possess the ability and determination to excel, thrive, and contribute creatively.
We call on the new administration to continue to honor the welcoming spirit that has always defined the United States, and, as the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, said in his parting speech:
Since this is the last speech that I will give as President, I think it’s fitting to leave one final thought, an observation about a country which I love. It was stated best in a letter I received not long ago. A man wrote me and said:
“You can go to live in France, but you cannot become a Frenchman. You can go to live in Germany or Turkey or Japan, but you cannot become a German, a Turk, or Japanese. But anyone, from any corner of the Earth, can come to live in America and become an American.’
Yes, the torch of Lady Liberty symbolizes our freedom and represents our heritage, the compact with our parents, our grandparents, and our ancestors. It is that lady who gives us our great and special place in the world. For it’s the great life force of each generation of new Americans that guarantees that America’s triumph shall continue unsurpassed into the next century and beyond. Other countries may seek to compete with us; but in one vital area, as a beacon of freedom and opportunity that draws the people of the world, no country on earth comes close.
This, I believe, is one of the most important sources of America’s greatness. We lead the world because, unique among nations, we draw our people — our strength — from every country and every corner of the world. And by doing so we continuously renew and enrich our nation.
While other countries cling to the stale past, here in America we breathe life into dreams. We create the future, and the world follows us into tomorrow. Thanks to each wave of new arrivals to this land of opportunity, we’re a nation forever young, forever bursting with energy and new ideas, and always on the cutting edge, always leading the world to the next frontier. This quality is vital to our future as a nation. If we ever closed the door to new Americans, our leadership in the world would soon be lost.”
(remarks made by President Ronald Reagan on Jan. 19, 1989)
Let us continue to build communities that celebrate the richness of our nation’s diverse backgrounds, experiences, and dreams—a powerful reminder that true greatness is realized when everyone has the opportunity to belong and thrive.
We urge the new administration to reconsider some positions expressed during the election campaign and realign them with the core values and principles that have always defined this great nation.
Tsehaye Teferra, Ph.D.
President & CEO
