Help ensure that those seeking safety will retain the ability to meet their needs in our communities. Take action today!

On Feb. 23, 2026, the U.S. government announced a proposed rule that would effectively shut down access to work permits for asylum seekers. Under this rule, according to the government’s own estimate, it could take up to 173 years before new work permit applications are accepted again. The rule would also make some renewals harder for those who already have work permits, and it offers no plan to fix the massive asylum backlog that created these delays in the first place. 

In the ELCA, “We oppose practices that create unreasonable obstacles and unattainable standards of proof for those seeking asylum” (ELCA social message on “Immigration,” p. 10) and affirm that “all residents, asylum-seekers, and refugees in the United States are to be protected as neighbors, even as they await determination of immigration status in the courts” (ELCA social message on “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy,” p. 13).

We also believe that dignified work is part of God’s plan for creation. Stripping people of the ability to work will make asylum seekers more vulnerable to exploitation, hunger or despair while simultaneously weakening the communities that have welcomed them and benefit from their contributions. 

This rule is not final. From now until Apr. 24, 2026, the government is accepting public comments on the proposal. By law, every unique, substantive comment must be read and addressed before the rule can move forward. 

You have the opportunity to act in two ways:

1. Submit a public comment on the proposal via Global Refuge’s online tool until Apr. 24, 2026. You can read the ELCA’s public comment here.
2. Use this ELCA Action Center form to call on members of Congress to raise their voices to oppose this rule and speak out against its implementation, ensuring that those seeking safety will retain the ability to meet their needs in our communities.

Personalize your public comment and message to Congress to oppose this rule and speak out against its implementation, ensuring that those seeking safety will retain the ability to meet their needs in our communities.

THANK YOU for joining the ELCA in advocating for asylum seekers!

Find your Member of Congress Here

Senator Catherine Cortez Mastro, 202-224-3542, https://www.cortezmasto.senate.gov/

Senator Jackie Rosen, 202-224-6244, https://www.rosen.senate.gov/

Rep. Dina Titus, (202)-225-5965, https://titus.house.gov/

Rep. Mark Amodei, (202)-225-6155, https://amodei.house.gov/

Rep. Susie Lee, (202)-225-3252, https://susielee.house.gov/

Rep Steven Horsford, (202)-225-9894, https://horsford.house.gov/

Read the Action Alert in the ELCA Advocacy Action Center

Today is an important day for the Reno City Council.

A city ordinance on data centers within Reno city limits is being discussed, an issue that will shape energy use, water resources, land development, and the long-term sustainability of our community.

At Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN), we pay attention not only to decisions at the Legislature, but also to what happens in city council chambers. These local decisions directly impact our neighborhoods, our environment, and our shared future.

And it’s not just about infrastructure.

Your local vote also shapes justice in your community. City council members make key decisions regarding incareration about funding, programs, and ordinances that influence incarceration rates, rehabilitation efforts, and policing policies right where we live.

These decisions are not abstract, they are deeply connected to the well-being of our neighbors.

As people of faith, we are called to show up, to stay informed, and to advocate for policies that reflect dignity, justice, and care for creation.

Pay attention. Stay engaged. Your voice matters.

Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) is excited to announce we joining as a coalition partner to the Nevada Environmental Justice Coalition. We are excited to join this organization that is committed to fighting for intersectional climate action and environmental justice.

On Tue. evening, May 5, a virtual “Candlelight Vigil for Murdered and Missing Women,” written by Dr. Kelly Sherman-Conroy, has been planned by Women of the ELCA. Registration and information at: https://www.womenoftheelca.org/ministry-action/justice/mmiw

This whole week we hope you feel called to especially recognize God’s glorious gift of Creation. We have many resources to help & hope that you share your stories of celebration & awe. Today we offer this visual treat and eye-wetting reading of Psalm 104. bit.ly/LRCpsalm104

Thanks to @christynk for your voice and true care for all around you. #EarthDay