The Ancient Order of Hibernians has expressed its concern over the suspension of the DV1 Diversity Visa program, this after a man - a Portuguese native - who received a diversity visa was linked to the shooting at Brown University and the murder of a professor
Said the AOH in a statement: "The Ancient Order of Hibernians views the announcement of the indefinite suspension of the Diversity Visa Lottery Program with grave concern. While we mourn the tragic loss of life at Brown University and MIT, we cannot allow tragedy to be exploited to close one of the last remaining legal pathways for Irish immigration to America.
"It should not be lost that the suspect in these murders came to America as a student 28 years ago and was vetted before receiving a Diversity Visa green card in September 2017. Laying the fault of his horrific acts on the Diversity Visa program makes about as much sense as laying it on the maternity hospital where he was born; this is nothing but political opportunism."
AOH National Immigration Chair Dan Dennehy stated: “The Diversity Visa Program has its roots in bipartisan Congressional legislation passed in 1990, specifically to address Irish immigration needs caused by historic inequities towards the Irish in U.S. immigration law. It brought together our previous efforts, the Donnelly, Morrison, and Berman visa programs—all created with Irish immigrants in mind. This program represents more than policy; it embodies the historic bond between Ireland and America.”
Added the AOH statement: The suspension announced by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem effectively eliminates the only remaining avenue for ordinary Irish citizens seeking legal immigration to the United States.
"We sadly note that, as we approach the 250th anniversary of America's founding document, the Declaration of Independence, its three Irish signers would be ineligible to immigrate under current immigration rules.
"We respect the need for thorough security vetting (though, again, asking how effective vetting can be for acts committed three decades later). ndeed, diversity visa applicants already undergo extensive background checks and must meet education and work experience requirements. The program's security protocols should be strengthened, if needed, rather than eliminating the program.
"The Ancient Order of Hibernians urges Congress to pass immigration reform that creates meaningful opportunities for Irish immigration. And we call on all Irish Americans to contact their elected representatives to demand action.
"America was built by immigrants, including millions of Irish who came seeking opportunity and freedom. It is time to remove the 19th-century 'No Irish Need Apply' sign from 21st-century American Immigration policy. We will not stand silent while America's door closes to the Irish once again."
