Lawful Assembly Podcast
Craig B. Mousin
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A podcast about the intersection of law, religion and activism. It is hosted by lawyer and activist Rev. Craig B. Mousin, founder and former Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy.
Available episodes
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Jul 10, 2023
Episode 39: “One Key to Literacy: Sharing Folktales”
Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy interviews DePaul graduate and Pangea Educational Development co-founder Drew Edwards. Drew and his colleagues in Uganda, with the support of many volunteers, have developed a remarkable literacy program in Uganda that works with refugees and internally displaced persons to engage the entire family in learning to read. In this final episode of this three-part series, Drew explains how the program invited local story tellers to share traditional folk stories and subsequently transformed those stories into children’s books for families to read together.
ACTION STEPS
1. If you would like to share your skill with Pangea, go to its website and learn how you can contribute your wisdom and talents. https://pangeaeducation.org
2. As Pope Francis told Drew Edwards, “Do more.”
RESOURCES
1. Pangea responds to Pope Francis call to encourage teaching: “Opportunities for meaningful encounters are to be promoted, so that teachers and students can have an opportunity to hear the stories of those men and women who are migrants, refugees, displaced persons or victims of trafficking.” Further these programs can “help identity and indicate the foundations for the construction of an intercultural society, in which ethnic, linguistic and religious diversity is seen as a source of enrichment and not an obstacle for the common future.” “Address of His Holiness Pope Francis to Participants in the Meeting on Refugees Promoted by the Pontifical Gregorian University, September 29, 2022. 2. For more information on Pangea Education, see: https://pangeaeducation.org
3. For more information on how Pangea work in publishing local folk stories to increase literacy see “Behind the Books: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SD8HvkBm30
If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Jul 3, 2023
Episode 38: “Serving All of Us Together”
Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy interviews DePaul graduate and Pangea Educational Development co-founder Drew Edwards. Drew and his colleagues in Uganda, with the support of many volunteers, have developed a remarkable literacy program in Uganda that works with refugees and internally displaced persons to engage the entire family in learning to read. In part two of this three-part episode, Drew speaks of some of the national and international barriers to working with refugees and offers insight into how Uganda has welcomed refugees and internally displaced persons.
RESOURCES
1. Pope Francis’ challenge for Catholic universities to educate their own students "to a clearer understanding of the phenomenon of migration, within a perspective of justice, global responsibility and communion in diversity" can be found in his “Address of His Holiness Pope Francis to Participants in the Meeting on Refugees Promoted by the Pontifical Gregorian University, September 29, 2022.
2. For more information on Pangea Education, see: https://pangeaeducation.org
If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Jun 26, 2023
Episode 37: “Soda Stories: Educating Families”
Episode 37: “Soda Stories: Educating Families”
Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy interviews DePaul graduate and Pangea Educational Development co-founder Drew Edwards. Drew and his colleagues in Uganda, with the support of many volunteers, have developed a remarkable literacy program in Uganda that works with refugees and internally displaced persons to engage the entire family in learning to read. Drew Edwards is a social entrepreneur with international development experience across sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East. He has spent his career working in education with children in post-conflict and crisis settings. He has extensive experience in informal and primary education in low-resource settings. His research interests include early childhood literacy, inclusion and belonging, and the intersection of violence and education. In part one of this three-part series, Drew offers ideas on how we all can respond to those who are forced to flee due to violence and ecological harm.
ACTION STEPS
1. Pope Francis has urged all of us to not simply welcome migrants, but “they must be welcomed, accompanied, promoted and integrated.” Read his address in the link below and find how you can best respond within your area of skill and interest.
2. As Pope Francis told Drew Edwards, “Do more.”
RESOURCES
1. Pope Francis stated, “I see the need for further studies on the so-called ‘right not to emigrate.’ It is important to reflect on the causes of migratory movements and on the forms of violence that lead people to depart for other countries.” “Address of His Holiness Pope Francis to Participants in the Meeting on Refugees Promoted by the Pontifical Gregorian University, September 29, 2022.
2. For more information on Pangea Education, see: https://pangeaeducation.org
3. For more information on Project Backpack, see: https://pangeaeducation.org/work/project-backpack
If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Apr 13, 2023
Episode 36: A Moral Claim for Sensible Gun Regulation
In this interview, Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy presents a moral argument for sensible gun regulation. We have learned since the recording of this podcast, that Justin Jones and Justin Pearson have been appointed to be interim State Representatives in the Tennessee legislature through the action of their respective constituents.
*ACTION STEPS *
*1. * Call or write your elected representatives to enact sensible gun laws to address the epidemic of gun violence in our nation.
*2. *The United Church of Christ offers a tool kit with resources to Advocate to End Gun Violence. Review it and take prophetic action.
*RESOURCES*
Justin Jones quote on the gun epidemic can be found at “Tennessee House expels 2 Democrats after gun control protest,” April 7, 2023.
Justin Pearson’s quote on sobering reality can be found at Nouran Salahieh, , “Reinstated Tennessee lawmaker Justin Jones says he’ll continue to call for gun reform” April 11, 2023. Justin Pearson’s statement regarding whom he speaks for in the legislature can be found at Democracy Now! 2023-04—11 Tuesday between 22:34-26:18.
The reference to Gloria Johnson can be found at Robin Gibson and Devarrick Turner, “Kelsea Ballerini, Gloria Johnson refer to Knoxville's 2008 Central High School shooting,” April 7, 2023.
Part of this podcast was inspired by my earlier op-ed “Where Does One Stand on a Slippery Slope?” (2013). You can find additional citations to the CDC, cases, and other resources in its footnotes.
Fr. Guillermo Campuzano, C.M., “Easter Season: A Culture of Nonviolence, Resilience and Communal Hope,” April 10, 2023
Rev. William Barber’s quote can be found in Ruth Graham, “Nashville, Battered and Mourning, Pauses for Easter,” April 9, 2023.
The Washington-Post: John Woodrow Cox et al, “More Than 349,000 school shootings” includes information on how gun violence places a disproportionate impact on black youth. (April 11, 2023) and Silvia Foster-Frau and Holly Bailey, “A tragedy without end,” March 27, 2023.
Cases cited in this podcast: New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen, 142 S. Ct. 2111, (Thomas, 2145; Alito, 2157) (2022); Glenn v. State, 72 S.E. 927, 929 (1911, Hill); State v. Workman, 14 S.E. 9, 11 (1891); Hill v. Georgia, 53 Ga. 476-7, (1874, McCay); Hopkins v. Commonwealth, 66 Ky. 480, 482 (1868, Robertson).
Listen to Sweet Honey in the Rock’s rendition of “Ella’s Song”
Contact us: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Mar 24, 2023
Episode 35: Let’s Not Make the Same Mistake
In this interview, Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy urges listeners to file comments opposing the Biden administration’s proposed asylum rule by 11:59 EDT, Monday, March 27, 2023.
*ACTION STEPS *
*1. Prepare a comment and* invite friends and family to also file a comment opposing the proposed rule that will undermine refugee protection.
A. Attorneys may use this template which also includes the diagram on the process discussed in the podcast.
B. Organizations or community groups may want to use this template.
*2. You can also email the **White House* and your Senators and Representative stating your opposition to this proposed rule emphasizing the need for a humanitarian border policy. Please find your individual link for your Senators or Representatives and urge them to oppose the Biden rule.
*RESOURCES*
Solutions for a Humane Border Policy, January 17, 2023.
NIJC’s Policy Director Heidi Altman discuss some of the many problems with the proposed rule in her interview.
Javier Zamora’s book is Solito, A Memoir, (Hogarth, N.Y. 2022). Mr. Zamora will be speaking at the NIJC’s Human Rights Award Luncheon on June 6, 2023; click here for information.
That only 10% of visas that were available were provided in the war years came from Paul Johnson, A History of the Jews, (Harper & Row, N.Y., 1987), 503.
Melissa del Bosque describes some of the problems with the CBP One mobile app, in “From Education to Everything Else,” The Border Chronicle, March 14, 2023.
Craig Mousin volunteers with the National Immigrant Justice Center. We welcome your inquiries or suggestions for future podcasts. If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Feb 23, 2023
Episode 34: Support Humanitarian Asylum Welcome
In this interview, Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy interviews Heidi Altman, the Policy Director of the National Immigrant Justice Center (www.immigrantjustice.org). Ms. Altman discusses a proposed rule that will effectively preclude most asylum-seekers from safely and effectively applying for asylum in the United States. She advocates for humanitarian asylum welcome. She previously served as the legal director for the Capital Area Immigrants' Rights Coalition and was a Teaching Fellow in the immigration clinic at Georgetown University Law School.
*ACTION STEPS *
*1. *Invite friends and family to learn how the proposed rule will undermine refugee protection and encourage them to respond to their elected representatives and the Biden administration urging withdrawal of the proposed rule.
*2. *The Sanctuary Working Group of the Chicago Religious Leadership Network currently serves and advocates alongside newly arrived asylum seekers in the Chicagoland area. There are many impactful ways you can help asylum seekers, from providing sponsorship and temporary housing to covering legal fees and advocating for policy change. Interested individuals, faith communities, or organizations may contact CRLN staff/consultant David Fraccaro at davidfraccaro99@gmail.com to talk about ways to partner together in supporting and protecting our newest neighbors.
*RESOURCES*
“Solutions for a Humane Border Policy,” National Immigrant Justice Center, January 17, 2023: https://immigrantjustice.org/staff/blog/solutions-humane-border-policy
“Proposed Ban on Asylum Violates US Law and Catholic Social Teaching,” Catholic Legal Immigration Network, February 22, 2023: https://www.cliniclegal.org/press-releases/proposed-ban-asylum-violates-us-law-and-catholic-social-teaching
“Biden Asylum Ban Will Endanger Refugees, Center for Gender and Refugee Rights, February 21, 2023: https://cgrs.uchastings.edu/news/biden-asylum-ban-will-endanger-refugees
The proposed rule is scheduled for publication on February 23, 2023: https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2023-03718.pdf
Craig Mousin volunteers with the National Immigrant Justice Center. We welcome your inquiries or suggestions for future podcasts. If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Jan 13, 2023
Episode 33: New Year, Same Problems
*Show Notes*
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast critiques Department of Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas’ recent NPR interview for what the interview omits in explaining 2023 asylum policies.
*ACTION STEP*
Imagine you are an asylum-seeker who has left your homeland. Listen to the interview with Secretary Mayorkas and consider its impact as you. Then write to the White House and Secretary Mayorkas and urge the Biden administration to follow the procedures and procedural protections of the Refugee Act of 1980: https://www.npr.org/people/4080709/steve-inskeep
*RESOURCES*
Dr. Shailja Sharma: “The Border ‘Crisis’ Is a Crisis We Can Solve,” January 9, 2023: https://www.chicagotribune.com/opinion/commentary/ct-opinion-border-asylum-seekers-resources-title-42-20230109-g3aoghdnn5avxavszsfcln7viu-story.html
Paul Schmidt quotes several experts on the new policy and adds his critique: (January 6, 2023): https://immigrationcourtside.com/2023/01/06/%f0%9f%a4%af%f0%9f%91%8e%f0%9f%8f%bc-experts-condemnation-of-bidens-latest-anti-asylum-border-gimmicks-swift-brutal-true/
Law professor Karen Musalo: “Enough with the Political Games. Migrants Have a Right to Asylum,” January 6, 2023, https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2023-01-06/biden-border-immigration-asylum-title-42
The National Immigrant Justice Center’s FAQs on these policies: https://immigrantjustice.org/staff/blog/recycling-trumps-asylum-bans-expanding-title-42-how-bidens-new-policies-threaten
For information on U.S. policies undermining democracy, see, Mousin, “You Were Told to Love the Immigrant,” https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2784951, text between fns. 161-166.
For documentation on the violence caused by soldiers trained at the School of the Americas Watch, now WHINSEC: www.soaw.org
The statistics on the violence at the border: *US/Mexico: Expelling Venezuelans Threatens Rights, Lives **Restore Access to Asylum at the Border*, (October 21, 2022) as cited in https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration/2022/10/human-rights-watch-usmexico-expelling-venezuelans-threatens-rights-lives-restore-access-to-asylum-at.html
We welcome your inquiries or suggestions for future podcasts. If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Dec 15, 2022
Episode 32: “Fear Not”
*Show Notes*
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program, and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast explores how the claim for a fully secure border has stalled immigration reform for over three decades. It calls for comprehensive immigration reform to address many of the issues the failed policies of detention and deportation have been unable to resolve.
*ACTION STEP*
The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) is hosting a week of action highlighting the theme “migration Join AFSC, the Interfaith Immigration Coalition (IIC), and #WelcomeWithDignity You can find suggestions for action at: bit.ly/AsylumDay22Toolkit * *
*RESOURCES*
The Prophet Haggai’s words are at Haggai 2:5 and the angels’ proclamation at Luke 2:10 (KJV).
Governor Johnston’s 1776 “Address in Answer to the King’s Speech” was quoted in Jack P. Greene, The Constitutional Origins of the American Revolution, (Cambridge University Press, 2011), p. 166.
John Higham’s “American cosmopolitan faith” can be found at “Instead of a Sequel, or How I Lost My Subject,” Reviews in American History 28 (2000), 327, 329, cited by Jerry Kammer, “Historian John Higham’s Widening Views on Modern Efforts to Limit Immigration, It’s Not All About Nativism,” May 23, 2010, https://cis.org/Historian-John-Highanms-Widening-Views-Modern-Efforts-Limit-Immigration. His comment on the disparities can be found at “Sequel,” p. 330.
The mileage of our borders is in, R. Jones, Nobody is Protected, How the Border Patrol Became the Most Dangerous Police Force in the United States, (Counterpoint, Berkeley, 2022), p. 45.
Information on the safety statistics:
* automobiles
* drowning
* bicycles
We welcome your inquiries or suggestions for future podcasts. If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Nov 22, 2022
Episode 31: New Light to Pierce the Logjam
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast explores a recent speech by Pope Francis involving responses to refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable immigrants. Pope Francis suggests that, through our common humanity, our collaborative efforts can build a safer world.
*ACTION STEP*
Read and respond to Pope Francis’ “Address of His Holiness Pope Francis to Participants in the Meeting on Refugees Promoted by the Pontifical Gregorian University,” September 29, 2022: https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2022/september/documents/20220929-incontro-rifugiati.html
*RESOURCES*
You can read more about Drew Edwards and his work with Pangea at: https://www.pangeaeducation.org
He also wrote a report of his attendance at the meeting of educators in Rome:
https://www.pangeaeducation.org/news/pope-francis-a-champion-for-refugee-education
For information on the DePaul Migration Collaborative: https://law.depaul.edu/academics/centers-institutes-initiatives/depaul-migration-collaborative/Pages/default.aspx
Other information on programs sponsored by DePaul’s Division of Ministry and Mission at: https://offices.depaul.edu/mission-ministry/Pages/default.aspx* *
*MUSIC FOR THE JOURNEY*
As we work together for our common global world, listen to Wiyaala sing Osibisa’s song, Woyaya (We Are Going) at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwckMpR9V-Q
We welcome your inquiries or suggestions for future podcasts. If you would like to ask more questions about our podcasts or comment, email us at: mission.depaul@gmail.com
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Sep 19, 2022
Episode 30: Who Is My Neighbor?
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast examines the recent bussing of asylum applicants to northern cities. Through exploration of the Good Samaritan Parable, the podcast invites listeners to ask the question how can we each be a neighbor to a vulnerable person.
*ACTION STEP*
1. Read the Good Samaritan Parable, Luke 10:25-37, and engage in a conversation with someone regarding how it applies to the efforts to send asylum applicants away from the border.
2. Encourage Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform.
*RESOURCES*
Sara Baielles’ “A Safe Place to Land” with John Legend is at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ht2NCrlghS4
For an expanded discussion of Dr. André LaCocque’s interpretation of the Good Samaritan Parable, including citations to his works, see my article on “Constantine's Legacy: Preserving Empire While Undermining International Law". https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3960335
at pp. 390-91.
Mayor Sean McDermott’s quote can be found in “Texas Gov. Abbott sends asylum seekers here to sow chaos, but Illinois is better than that,” (September 15, 2022) at: https://chicago.suntimes.com/2022/9/15/23355440/texas-gov-abbott-asylum-seekers-venezuela-immigrants-countryside-mayor-sean
Paul Wickham Schmidt, "Opportunity Knocks," (September 16, 2022) at:
https://immigrationcourtside.com/2022/09/17/
You may find Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman’s book, All Are Neighbors at: https://www.womenandchildrenfirst.com/book/9780593429983
The budget for the federal government support of refugee resettlement came from: Todd Miller, “More Than a Wall: Corporate Profiteering and the Militarization of U.S. Borders,” Transnational Institute (TNI), September 16, 2019) at https://www.tni.org/files/publication-downloads/more_than_a_wall_-_executive_summary.pdf
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Sep 2, 2022
Episode 29: Gratitude for those who labor and those who have labored.
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast celebrates all those who worked to defeat the amendments that tried to codify Title 42 in August, 2022. In addition, as we celebrate Labor Day 2022, we give thanks for all those immigrants who came to our nation, offered their skills and fostered families that have contributed to the common good.
*ACTION STEPS*
Thank your Senator(s) if they voted to defeat the anti-immigrant amendments to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. If your Senator(s) voted for an amendment, redouble your efforts to urge them to convince them to end Title 42.
Urge Congress to pass the Afghan Adjustment Act. Church World Service provides you with a link to send your email at: https://cwsglobal.org/action-alerts/take-action-urge-congress-to-swiftly-pass-the-bipartisan-afghan-adjustment-act/…
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Jul 29, 2022
Episode 28: Do Not Let Summer Daze Convert Pretense Into Law: End Title 42
*SHOW NOTES*
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast examines new attempts to codify the harmful effects of Title 42 through amending the Fiscal Year 2023 spending bills currently before Congress. Please email or call your elected representative and oppose all of these amendments.
*ACTION STEP*
1. Email your Senators and Representative to oppose these amendments. The National Immigrant Justice Center provides information and a simple link to register your voice: https://immigrantjustice.org/staff/blog/5-facts-about-title-42-why-congress-should-not-codify-trump-era-expulsion-policy
2. You can call your elected representatives with this helpful script and background information provided by the Center for Gender and Refugee Studies: https://cgrs.uchastings.edu/our-work/action-center-tell-congress-reject-anti…
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Jun 16, 2022
Episode 27: Stop the Burning
*SHOW NOTES*
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast explores the recent efforts to censor and self-censor books in our public schools and libraries. It links some of that censorship to a fear of the newcomer and our nation’s failure to legislate comprehensive immigration reform.
*ACTION STEP*
Thank a librarian and ask how you can help stop the burning. For more information, the Intellectual Freedom Office of the American Library Association offers resources at: https://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/oif
*RESOURCES*
The Washington Post article on self-censorship and national statistics was written by Hannah Natanson, March 22, 2022: “Schools nationwide are quietly removing books from their libraries” at: https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2022/03/22/school-librarian-book-bans-challenges/
The q…
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May 27, 2022
Episode 26: Streamline Rule Precludes a Complete Record
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast examines the federal government’s request for comments on a proposed Interim Final Rule involving adjudication of asylum applications. It argues that the expedited deadlines and streamlining procedures will prevent asylum applicants from developing a complete record in support of their claims and may make it almost impossible for asylum seekers to obtain legal representation. The Action Step below lists a link to the Interim Final Rule and the link to upload your comments. The Resources list several different links to understand the problems with the Interim Final Rule and different templates to assist you draft your comments.
*ACTION STEP*
You are invited to submit comments with your personal critiques of elements of the law.
Please note, once you click on this lin…
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May 10, 2022
Episode 25: Stop the Pretense That It is Just About Public Health
*SHOW NOTES*
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast examines the “Public Health and Border Security Act of 2022” and critiques the intent of the proposal. It argues that the implementation of Title 42 procedures in denying asylum seekers entrance to the United States masquerades as public health and violates domestic law.
*ACTION STEP*
1. Church World Service: This link provides a sample communication with your elected Senators and Representative to “Urge Congress to Reject Anti-Asylum Policies and Invest in Humane Welcome”:
https://cwsglobal.org/action-alerts/urgent-action-urge-congress-to-reject-anti-asylum-policies-and-invest-in-humane-welcome/
* The Welcome With Dignity Coalition offers you this sample script to call your elected representatives today: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_…
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Mar 29, 2022
Episode 24: Restoring Roots of Refugee Responses
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast explores different national responses to refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine. It urges that the current generosity offered to Ukrainian refugees serves as a template for a more responsible refugee protection for all nations.
*ACTION STEP*
*1. *Church World Service: Rebuilding the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP): Recommendations to Strengthen Refugee Resettlement in the United States*” *March 2022 at: https://cwsglobal.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/USRAPRecommendations.pdf
*2. *Human Rights First has offered a link to advocate for passage of the Afghan Adjustment Act at: https://humanrightsfirst.quorum.us/campaign/36088/?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=9de6d8cd-d102-4d03-92f8-04439421e680
3. Evacuate our Allies has put together a social media tool kit to assis…
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Feb 21, 2022
Episode 23: What the heck is a proposed rule? (and other questions)
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast responds to questions raised by our listeners about the importance of responding to proposed federal regulations. In five of our previous podcasts we invited you to file responses to proposed regulations or federal rules impacting how our nation treats asylum seekers and refugees. We have been asked why engage in submitting comments and what else can one do to expand hospitality within our nation?
If you are seeking additional immigration on asylum issues such as limiting asylum applications or restricting admissions based on public health considerations, visit the National Immigrant Justice Center’s resource page at: https://immigrantjustice.org/issues/asylum-seekers-refugees
If you would like more information on the work of the DePaul College of Law Asylum and Imm…
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Jan 21, 2022
Episode 22: Suffer the Little Children
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast requests that you send comments to the federal government before midnight eastern standard time on Tuesday, January 25 providing ideas to end the policies that have led to family separation and lengthy detention of asylum seekers. The Biden administration has recognized the human tragedy caused by these policies and has requested your ideas to ensure the United States never engages in such policies and practices again.
*ACTION STEP*
You can use either of these links to send your ideas to the Task Force.
The National Immigrant Justice Center has provided the direct link to the request for comments:
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/12/10/2021-26691/identifying-recommendations-to-support-the-work-of-the-interagency-task-force-on-the-reunification
A coali…
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Jan 20, 2022
Episode 21: Pondering Anew
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast opens the new year with a request to consider how our biblical and national founding narratives offer us an opportunity to reconsider how we as individuals and a nation should respond to asylum seekers fleeing danger in their homelands.
The biblical narrative stories can be found in Matthew 1-2 and Luke 2:1-19.
The TRAC data base from Syracuse University provided the information on the 22,068 individuals in detention. See: https://trac.syr.edu/immigration/detentionstats/pop_agen_table.html
The American Immigration Council’s report on individuals in detention and the number of unaccompanied minors in detention can be found at: “Rising Border Encounters in 2021: An Overview and Analysis” See: https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/rising-border-encounters-in-…
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Nov 23, 2021
Episode 20: As Maine Goes, So Goes the Nation
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast celebrates the cooperative work of Somali refugee farmers in Maine and elsewhere demonstrating the talents and gifts they bring to our nation. The podcast also urges listeners to email their congressional Representative to vote for the Afghan Adjustment Act.
*ACTION STEP: *We provide two links to offer background information and to email your congressional Representative to vote for the Afghan Adjustment Act.
* Refugee One recommends this link to email your Representative in support of the Afghan Adjustment Act: https://humanrightsfirst.quorum.us/campaign/36088/
For additional information about the proposed Act or Refugee One, visit its website at: https://www.refugeeone.org/afghanistan.html
* The Pennsylvania Council of Churches also provides background informa…
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Oct 15, 2021
Episode 19: Expedite at What Cost?
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University’s College of Law, Refugee and Forced Migrations Studies Program and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast requests listeners to file comments opposing DHS and DOJ proposed regulations governing Credible Fear Screening by Asylum Officers.
*ACTION STEP:* You can file comments opposing part of or all of the proposed regulations before 11:59 p.m. EDT, Tuesday October 19. CLINIC, the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., has provided a sample template that provides instructions and helpful arguments to prepare and then submit your comments. https://uchastings.app.box.com/s/qxj0pz0e7ehn8a1yontxz7gwvddad3ng
If you are unable to meet this Tuesday’s deadline, please consider corresponding with the White House and your Senators and Representative to oppose these proposed regulations. The template offers sample language you might find helpful in communicating with elected rep…
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Sep 30, 2021
Episode 18: Fear of Freedom
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University College of Law and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast contends that United States discrimination against Haitians over the last two centuries has created a moral obligation to Haiti and its residents. Most recently, efforts to swiftly deport Haitians, contrary to the Refugee Act’s non-return requirement, reveals how efforts to restrict Haitian asylum-seekers over the last forty years has contributed to the continual denigration of asylum protections under the Refuge Act of 1980.
*ACTION STEP:* The United Church of Christ offers you a way to promptly inform your representatives that deportations to Haiti must cease at: https://p2a.co/MnT2c4m
A petition to stop Haitian deportations:
https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-demand-that-the-biden-administration-halt-all-deportations-to-haiti?source=2021EndDeportationstoHaiti_NIJC&referrer=group-national-immigrant…
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Aug 18, 2021
Episode 17: Leave the Campsite Cleaner
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University College of Law and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast celebrates the decision by Dynegy Midwest Generation to enter into a settlement agreement with the State of Illinois to remove 3.3 million cubic yards of coal ash from its current location adjacent to the Middle Fork of the Vermillion River. Illinois’s only National Scenic River, the Middle Fork, offers one of the most diverse habitats for animals and plants in Illinois, but remains threatened by erosion of the river bank near the coal ash pits. The coal ash will now be removed, in part, through successful collaboration from environmental groups and citizen advocacy, including:
Eco-Justice Collaborative, (https://ecojusticecollaborative.org/),
PrairieRiversNetwork (https://prairierivers.org/dynegy-vermilion-middle-fork/)
EarthJustice’s coal ash program (https://earthjustice.org/about/offices/coal).
You may also…
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Jul 31, 2021
Episode 16: Posterity
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University College of Law and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. This podcast argues that the Preamble to the Constitution invites you to add your voice to protecting and expanding voting rights to ensure the nation’s promise of equality for all. Since the Civil War, our nation has amended the United States Constitution at least once every fifty years to expand voting rights to persons previously excluded. The summer of 2021 marks fifty years since the 26th Amendment lowered the voting age to 18. Today, however, we face, renewed efforts to restrict voting rights through reluctance in Congress or state legislation making it more difficult to register and vote. It is time to assemble with others to protect and expand voting rights through local and national action.
You can read the Constitution at: https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/
Citations to Professor Akhil Amar are from his b…
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Jun 12, 2021
Episode 15: Home
This is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member of the DePaul University College of Law and the Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. This podcast links the loss of homes felt by many of the freed slaves after the Civil War, including George Floyd’s great-great grandfather, with the loss of home many refugees face when forced to flee their nations due to state sanctioned violence and the consequences of the breakdown of the rule of law. We face challenges both at our borders, but also when we contribute to the conditions that force families to flee their homes. We need to address ways to provide the rule of law and justice for all. The story of George Floyd’s family history and the loss of his great-great grandfather’s 500 acres comes from Toluse Olorunnipa and Griff Witte, “Born with two strikes, How systemic racism shaped Floyd’s life and hobbled his ambition,” https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/national/george-floyd-america/systemic-racis…
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May 14, 2021
Episode 14: Celebrate and Advocate for Refugees
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. President Biden recently responded to a national outcry protesting the limitation of refugee resettlement in this fiscal year to 15,000 refugees and reversed his decision, raising the goal to welcome 62,500 refugees. This podcast encourages advocates to encourage the administration to achieve that goal and collaborate with resettlement agencies to revitalize the public-private partnership that will continue to benefit our communities.
President Biden’s announcement can be found at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/05/03/statement-by-president-joe-biden-on-refugee-admissions/
The specific numbers allocated for this fiscal year can be found at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/05/03/memorandum-for-the-secretary-of-state-on-the-emergency-presidential-determi…
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Apr 15, 2021
Episode 13: A Call to Resettle Refugees
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. In February, President Biden announced that he would restore the United States partnership in refugee resettlement by inviting up to 125,000 refugees to our nation in the next fiscal year. He also said he would increase the number of refugees previously designated for resettlement in this fiscal year. The Presidential Determination increasing refugee resettlement in this fiscal year to 65,000 has not been yet signed. One workable response to rebuilding would be to resettle refugees to reach those numbers. In the midst of the turmoil, this would be one significant step to protect the vulnerable. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) Report on the few refugees resettled in 2021 can be found at: https://www.rescue.org/sites/default/files/document/5783/ircmid-yearrefugeeadmissionsreport-april2021.pdf
Chaplain Abdul-Malik Rya…
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Apr 7, 2021
Episode 12: Shared Values
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast encourages us to respond to our shared values of living under the rule of law as the US seeks to reform its immigration law. When our debate focuses on naming individuals as illegals prior to adjudication, it leads to gridlock. By focusing on why the U.S. established a refugee law and the importance of fair and just procedures, we may instead build upon those shared values. The podcast also explains how criminal and civil law addresses those who seek to cross the border without authorization.
For information on the Border Patrol budget, see “The Cost of Immigration Enforcement and Border Security,” provided by the American Immigration Council at: https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/the-cost-of-immigration-enforcement-and-border-security (January 21, 2021).
For information on ways to address ref…
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Apr 2, 2021
Episode 11: Building a Welcoming City
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, founder and former Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. The podcast celebrates the thirty-sixth anniversary of former Mayor Harold Washington’s Executive Order 85-1 that prohibited city agencies, including the police, from cooperating with the enforcement activities of the Immigration and Naturalization Service. After the Chicago City Council enacted an ordinance sharing Mayor Washington’s goals twelve years ago, the City Council recently added new amendments to Chicago’s Welcoming City Ordinance, signed by Mayor Lori Lightfoot on February 23, 2021. The podcast commends the activism of the Chicago Immigration Working Group for its efforts to build a truly welcoming city. To that end, that Group reminded all that “to be a true welcoming city, Chicago must start to divest from criminalization, begin to i…
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Mar 30, 2021
Episode 10: Rebuild Refugee Resettlement
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, founder and former Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. President Biden announced that he would restore the United States partnership in refugee resettlement by inviting up to 125,000 refugees to our nation in the next fiscal year while also exploring increases in the number of refugees previously designated in this fiscal year. This podcast describes the leadership Illinois demonstrated over the four decades since the enactment of the Refugee Act of 1980. It encourages us to rebuild our local community support for refugee resettlement by strengthening the public-private collaboration that has benefitted our communities. You can find information on the Illinois resettlement agencies and the work they do at: rcusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2…019IllinoisRCUSA.pdf.
Chicago programs include:
The Catholic Charitie…
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 7: Can It Be Fair Process
Can It Be Fair Process Without a Fair Process to File an Asylum Application?
This episode is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. He responds to the federal government’s proposed regulations that would change the time limit for filing an asylum application before an Immigration Judge. These proposed rules will hinder the ability of individuals to pursue cases without lawyers and increase the difficulty of pro bono representation by volunteer lawyers. We encourage you to file your own comments opposing part or all of the proposed procedures and asking the government to withdraw the entire proposed rule. To assist you in obtaining a link to the proposed procedures or in filing your comment, you may incorporate your remarks into one of the templates provided by the following:
Our colleagues at the National Immigrant Justice Center have provided sample comments and a link to…
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 6: Ombuds Day 2020: What’s an Ombuds To Do in a Polarized Society?
This episode is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, DePaul’s University Ombudsperson. Craig is founder and former Executive Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. In recognition of Ombuds Day 2020, Craig talks about the role of an Ombuds in a polarized society. Ombuds not only serve their institution, but their skills and experience can model practices and provide guidance in addressing polarization and conflict outside the walls of our institutions as well. For another example of how an Ombuds can serve an institution’s ability to live out its mission, see Craig’s article in the Vincentian Heritage Journal, “Vincentian Leadership: Advocating for Justice,” at works.bepress.com/craig_mousin/5/
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 8: Honor World Children’s Day
This episode is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. On November 20, 2020, the designated World Children’s Day, Rev. Mousin discusses what can be done in response to the thousands of children detained, deported, and excluded from applying for remedies permitted under the Refugee Act of 1980. In addition, he invokes the ten immediate priorities recommended by a coalition of several national organizations including among others, The Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights and the American Academy of Pediatricians to correct United States immigration and refugee law and policy regarding children.
The Immediate Priorities for the Protection of Immigrant Children can be found at: www.theyoungcenter.org/stories/2020/…%20Priorities. Amnesty International offers one way to take immediate action to protest the proposed deportation of the 28 children and their families thro…
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 9: To Do A Blessing
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, founder and former Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. Inspired by the Rev. Dr. Silvester S. Beaman’s benediction from the inauguration of President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on January 20, 2021, this podcast urges those seeking to reform immigration law to seek our common humanity. Recognizing the whirlwind of changes in immigration and refugee law from 2017 to the present, the podcast suggests we have to consider what we owe to those who have contributed to the growth of our nation as we reconsider how best to reform our nation’s laws. To listen to the benediction of the Rev. Dr. Silvester S. Beaman, Pastor of the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Wilmington, Delaware, see: bethelwilmington.org
To read more of how Abraham Lincoln understood his motivation for the Emancipation Proclamation, see, Ga…
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 5: Celebrate Ombuds Day--October 8, 2020
Join Ombuds and friends from around the world to celebrate the peacemaking work of Ombuds. Sponsored by the American Bar Association’s Dispute Resolution Committee (www.americanbar.org/groups/dispute_resolution/). Ombuds Day will meet virtually, but intentionally, on Thursday, October 8,2020 to raise up the work of Ombuds and seek ways to address resolution of conflict and miscommunication. Craig B. Mousin, DePaul University’s Ombudsperson (offices.depaul.edu/mission-ministr…es/default.aspx) provides an introduction to Ombuds Day and the work of Ombuds in this Lawful Assembly podcast. You can find additional information as well as the link to register for events on Thursday at: www.americanbar.org/groups/dispute_…cle/ombuds-day/
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 4: Help Our System of Justice Work Best
This episode is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin, founder and former Executive Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center which later became the National Immigrant Justice Center (www.immigrantjustice.org), and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. He responds to the federal government’s proposed regulations that would limit the discretion of Immigration Judges and change the procedure for appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals. These proposed rules will hinder the ability of individuals to pursue cases without lawyers and increase the difficulty of pro bono representation by volunteer lawyers. Cumulatively, if implemented, they will harm our communities and undermine our system of justice. We encourage you to file your own comments opposing part or all of the proposed procedures and asking the government to withdraw the entire proposed rule. To assist you in obtaining a link to the proposed proced…
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 3: Repair the Breach
Repair the Breach: Help All in Your Community Be Counted in the 2020 Census
This episode is an interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin founder and former Executive Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. He discusses how the Census, by counting all those residing in the United States every ten years, if done well, helps the nation repair past breaches to our body politic. In the wake of a pandemic, civic unrest and the long road to healing our nation from the consequences of slavery and racism, the Census offers an opportunity for all of “We the People” to be counted and leading to a fairer representation. The government will stop counting residents in this Census on September 30, 2020, thus necessitating that we all use our resources to ensure a fair count. You can go to www.census.gov for information on how to encourage greater participation. If you would like to…
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 1: Portland - What Border are we Defending?
In this episode Rev. Craig B. Mousin discusses the deployment of federal officers to Portland in reaction to the ongoing protests. He discusses the problem of relying on federal immigration officers for local law enforcement and links some of Chicago’s responses to federal interference in local matters.
He references a previous podcast about DACA recipients and their families and communities. It is available here:
Bcicirel – It-is-more-than-just-the-dreamers
For more insight into the distinction between the constitutional constraints on Customs And Border Enforcement and local law enforcement, see a blog co-authored by a former colleague at DePaul College of Law’s Asylum and Immigration Law Clinic, Linus Chan, now an Associate Clinical Professor of Law at the University of Minnesota Law School: “Trump’s Paramilitary Unites Trained at the Border for the Assaults on Portland Moms,” by Linus Chan and Carrie L. Rosenbaum. slate.com/news-and-politics/20…d-moms-attacked.html
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Mar 29, 2021
Episode 2: New Opportunity to Oppose Proposed Regulations Precluding Asylum Eligibility
This is a podcast interview with Rev. Craig B. Mousin founder and former Executive Director of the Midwest Immigrant Rights Center and an Adjunct Faculty member at DePaul University’s College of Law and The Grace School of Applied Diplomacy. He talks about responding to the federal government’s proposed regulations that would make asylum seekers ineligible for asylum and related remedies based on purported public health considerations. We encourage you to file your own comments opposing part or all of the proposed procedures and asking the government to withdraw the entire proposed rule. To assist you in obtaining a link to the proposed procedures or in filing your comment, you may incorporate your remarks into one of the templates provided by the following:
The National Immigrant Justice Center’s template is at:
immigrantjustice.salsalabs.org/asylumreg…ndex.html
If you are concerned about unaccompanied minors or children refugee issues, you can find the Young Center’s templa…
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