1. Advocacy
ARC’s Advocacy agenda serves as the hub for the strategic policy work of the coalition’s member organizations, coordinating advocacy engagement with Congress, the Administration, and grassroots advocates. Nationwide, this agenda focuses on addressing policies affecting refugees and immigrants, such as affordable housing, education, and healthcare access. It involves engaging with government officials and community leaders through town hall meetings and partnerships with local advocacy groups, ensuring that refugee voices are influential in policymaking. The agenda addresses state-level immigration policies, advocating for humane treatment, legal representation, and protections against discriminatory practices. Nationally, the agenda influences federal policies and collaborates with other states to create a cohesive advocacy strategy. Internationally, ARC partners with global organizations to promote refugee rights and influence international refugee policy frameworks.
2. Anti-Racism
The Anti-Racism agenda of ARC engages the diversity of its members and partners to address issues of anti-Blackness, racism, and inequity, fostering stronger and more responsive work. Nationwide, this agenda works to dismantle systemic racism within communities and institutions that affect refugees. This involves conducting workshops, training sessions, and community dialogues aimed at raising awareness and promoting inclusivity. The agenda collaborates with local organizations to create safe spaces for critical engagement on these issues. Nationally, the agenda advocates for anti-racist policies and practices within ARC’s member organizations and across the refugee support network. Internationally, ARC collaborates with global partners to address racial inequities in refugee policies and practices, promoting global standards that ensure fair treatment for all refugees.
3. Climate Displacement
ARC’s Climate Displacement agenda focuses on promoting protections for individuals displaced due to climate change impacts. Nationwide, this agenda addresses local climate resilience and adaptation strategies, ensuring that refugee communities are included in disaster preparedness and response plans. It involves working with local governments and organizations to raise awareness about climate displacement and advocate for policies that support displaced individuals. Nationally, the agenda influences federal policies on climate-induced displacement and collaborates with other states to develop comprehensive support systems for climate refugees. Internationally, ARC engages with global organizations and forums to advocate for international protections and support for climate-displaced persons, sharing best practices and policy recommendations.
4. Communications
The Communications agenda of ARC coordinates the coalition’s rapid response and long-term strategic communications projects. Nationwide, this agenda centers community storytellers and leaders, working to amplify refugee voices and narratives through media campaigns, public relations efforts, and community events. It involves collaborating with local media outlets and organizations to promote positive stories and counter negative stereotypes about refugees. Nationally, the agenda develops strategic communications plans to influence public opinion and policy, utilizing digital platforms and media partnerships to reach a wider audience. Internationally, ARC works with global communications networks to share refugee stories and promote transformative narrative changes, aiming to build a more inclusive global discourse on refugees.
5. Resettlement
Reserved for the 10 national resettlement agencies, ARC’s Resettlement agenda provides a platform for sharing programmatic updates, coordinating services, and promoting excellence in the US resettlement program. Nationwide, this agenda focuses on resettlement challenges and opportunities, such as housing, employment, and education for newly arrived refugees. It involves working with local resettlement agencies to ensure efficient service delivery and address specific community needs. Nationally, the agenda coordinates with other resettlement agencies to standardize practices, share resources, and advocate for federal support. Internationally, ARC collaborates with global resettlement partners to improve resettlement processes and share best practices, contributing to a more effective global resettlement system.
6. Sponsorship
The Sponsorship agenda of ARC develops aligned programmatic and policy approaches to co-sponsorship, private sponsorship, and other forms of community sponsorship. Nationwide, this agenda engages community groups, faith-based organizations, and volunteers in providing support services for refugees. It promotes community sponsorship programs that foster direct involvement and support from local residents. Nationally, the agenda advocates for policies that facilitate private and community sponsorship, working with federal agencies to create supportive frameworks. Internationally, ARC partners with global organizations to promote sponsorship models and share successful practices, aiming to build a more inclusive and supportive global community for refugees.
7. Social Protection
ARC’s Social Protection agenda focuses on ensuring that refugees have access to essential services and social safety nets. Nationwide, this agenda works to secure access to healthcare, education, and social services for refugees. It involves collaborating with service providers and government agencies to remove barriers and improve service delivery. Nationally, the agenda advocates for comprehensive social protection policies that include refugees, ensuring they receive the support needed to rebuild their lives. Internationally, ARC partners with global organizations to promote social protection frameworks that ensure refugees’ rights and access to services in host countries.8. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Female Support
The Gender-Based Violence and Female Support agenda of ARC aims to address and prevent violence against refugee women and girls. Nationwide, this agenda provides support services, including counseling, legal assistance, and safe spaces for survivors of GBV. It involves working with local organizations to raise awareness and educate communities about GBV. Nationally, the agenda advocates for policies and programs that protect refugee women and girls, ensuring they have access to justice and support. Internationally, ARC collaborates with global partners to promote policies and practices that prevent GBV and support survivors, fostering a safer environment for refugee women and girls.