Gov. Cox sends letter to President Biden about helping those fleeing Afghanistan

SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 17, 2021) — On Aug. 17, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox sent the following letter to President Biden:

Dear President Biden:

I’m deeply saddened by the human tragedy currently unfolding in Afghanistan. I recognize Utah plays no direct role in shaping U.S. diplomatic or military policy, but we have a long history of welcoming refugees from around the world and helping them restart their lives in a new country. We are eager to continue that practice and assist with the resettlement of individuals and families fleeing Afghanistan, especially those who valiantly helped U.S. troops, diplomats, journalists, and other civilians over the past 20 years.

As you may already know, Utah’s history guides our approach to refugees. Our state was settled by refugees fleeing religious persecution 170 years ago. Their descendants have a deep understanding of the danger and pain caused by forced migration and an appreciation for the wonderful contributions of refugees in our communities.

Please advise us in the coming days and weeks how we can assist.

Sincerely,

Spencer J. Cox

Governor

CC: Anthony Blinken, Secretary, U.S. Department of State

Lawrence Bartlett, Director of Refugee Admissions, Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, U.S.

Department of State

You can download a copy of the letter here.

###