Howard Manuel: Support newly settled Afghans
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There is no easy way to relive it; the American spirit was tested throughout our time in Afghanistan. We can have many a long discussion about what and when, or about our withdrawal strategy in 2021. But in this new year, our efforts are best exerted looking at the lingering issues at hand. The most pressing of these is the resettlement of Afghani refugees in the United States.
For the last two decades, Afghan nationals served as the compass for American and allied forces as well as humanitarian workers in the global fight against terror. These integral members served as interpreters and linguists, and in various other support functions for U.S. troops, contractors and diplomats, and later in support of the U.S.-backed Afghan government.
It was through these Afghans we communicated our visions of democracy and human rights that became the catalyst of change in the nation. In translating this vision, the Afghan people have taken great risks as well. By picking a side, the American side, they risked their own lives and those of their relatives.
While we are out of Afghanistan, we cannot forfeit our responsibility towards these allies.
Our nation was not fortunate enough to evacuate all the individuals who took on this risk prior to the coalition force departure last August. Those who have been evacuated look forward to a new life in the United States.
While we can agree that bringing Afghan refugees to our shores is a successful milestone, our commitment is far from finished. Settlement and reintegration take time, and it can take years until the Afghans are properly integrated into our society and can independently exist here. Until then, we owe it to them to understand the barriers so that we can help them overcome them.
When we imagine Afghan evacuees in America, it is easy to forget that they come from a war-torn region, and are still fighting for a better life. We need to make sure that Afghan refugees have access to emotional support and mental health care. Though they are physically safe now, many will experience distress and such common mental disorders such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder . The World Health Organization recommends that the mental health needs of migrants and refugees be addressed by organizing inclusive and accessible promotion and prevention programs; strengthening mental health as part of general health services; and ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. The Afghan refugees deserve this care from the American people.
Afghan refugees will also need help understanding the legal framework of their resettlement. U.S. immigration laws of our nation are confusing for anyone, let alone someone who is trying to build a new life in a new country. They will need to understand their rights and even their duties. There needs to be clear communication about policies and the process of resettlement.
Lastly and just as important, we must work to assist refugee children regarding health and access to education. Refugee parents and children undergo considerable stress immigrating and adjusting to a new country. Parents are often concerned for their children’s safety and fundamental needs such as pediatric care and nutrition. Children are faced with the challenge of adjusting to American norms in and outside of the classroom.
Tens of thousands of Afghan refugees have been brought to the United States since last summer, thrilled to make this their new home. As Americans, we must open our hearts and support our allies who have honored their allegiance to our nation.
As we begin 2022, consider supporting nonprofit organizations such as No One Left Behind, which assists Afghan families with resettlement, or watching the CBS sitcom “United States of Al,” which depicts the friendship of a Marine veteran and his Afghan interpreter.
We must support Afghani refugees as they adapt to American life and celebrate their resilience and their growth in American society. Every American should make a commitment this year to assist in this mission.
Howard Manuel is on the board of directors of No One Left Behind.