First, evangelicals have been involved with refugee resettlement for a long time and in a lot of churches. Many evangelical leaders have advocated for refugees, from all different faiths, for years. They know the program, and they know the refugees \u2014 and they know it\u2019s safe and a good way to show the love of Christ.<\/p>\n
Second, evangelical leaders, knowing the facts, are emboldened to speak when alternative facts may be holding sway elsewhere, particularly when those alternative facts are hurting the most vulnerable. In the Christian tradition, we call that speaking prophetically \u2014 like prophets in what Christians call the Old Testament, we have to sometimes speak to our own people and remind them of what is right.<\/p>\n
Third, many evangelical leaders have had an uneasy connection with the Trump administration. Yes, they know that white evangelicals voted overwhelmingly for President Trump, and many strongly agree with Trump\u2019s stated concerns about religious liberty, the Supreme Court, and more. But they want \u2014 and even need \u2014 room to disagree with a president who has said and done many things contrary to their beliefs. Speaking up for refugees is one of the areas where many believe they can.<\/p>\n