On August 3, 2006, Crescent Fort Rouge United Church, made a decision to offer sanctuary to the Raza family. We did this quickly, but not lightly, believing the well- being of the six Raza children would be in jeopardy should they be deported to Pakistan. Today, February 29, 2008, we are delighted to announce that the Raza family has been granted temporary resident status, and their time of sanctuary is ended. This is the first step in a process that should see the Raza family obtain their permanent resident status.
We are deeply thankful to the family’s lawyer, Kenneth Zaifman, for his work on this case. Our lawyer worked with the Immigration Canada and Canadian Border Services Agency to work on a solution that balanced the circumstances that the Raza found themselves in and the requirements of the Immigration Act.
The family will continue to live with us while appropriate housing is found, and as we navigate a time of transition, both for the Razas and for the many volunteers who have been working with them. For 18 months, Crescent Fort Rouge United has been both home and prison to the family, and the change for the Raza family and for us in the church will be enormous. We have formed deep bonds, and we look forward to continuing to support the family as they return to our community and begin a new life among us.
It has been an amazing journey, and there are many, many people to thank, both within the walls of this church and beyond. The prayers, lobby efforts and financial support from churches across Canada are greatly appreciated. There is no longer need for political lobbying on their behalf. Your continued prayers for them as they move ahead are welcomed. So too, financial support for the congregation is welcomed as we meet legal costs, rent and other costs relating to the sanctuary and settlement process.
Donations may be sent to: Crescent Fort Rouge United Church, 525 Wardlaw Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3L 0L9
No comments:
Post a Comment