The Opinions My Values ‘Can’t Be Nullified by an Executive Order’
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Feb 17, 2025 Kirk Wallace Johnson, a former USAID worker who founded the LIST Project, shares his passionate insights on the American refugee program's struggles during the Trump administration. He reflects on the values of U.S. immigration and the personal stories that shape them. The discussion traverses his emotional journey from opposing the Iraq War to advocating for Iraqi allies. Johnson highlights the urgent need for support and recognition, while contrasting today's muted resistance with past activism, revealing the complexities of humanitarian efforts in turbulent times.
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WWII Refugee Crisis
- FDR's concerns about potential spies among Jewish refugees led to restrictive policies.
- Breckenridge Long, head of the refugee bureau, created ways to delay and deny Jewish refugees entry to the US.
Presidential Influence
- Presidential determination heavily influences refugee admission.
- Bureaucrats are unlikely to prioritize refugee admission if the president doesn't.
Joining USAID
- Kirk, driven by a sense of purpose, joined USAID after witnessing the Iraq War debate in Egypt.
- Despite opposing the war, he felt obligated to assist in rebuilding Iraq.