As we move forward into a new chapter, it is crucial that we embrace unity over division. Our goal is to build a strong, supportive community and contribute positively to this country, which has offered us safety and opportunity through the compassion and courage of its people.

Now, more than ever, the Cameroon Advocacy Network (CAN) is committed to standing by immigrants.  However, President-elect Trump has promised grave dangers for human rights defenders—and we take his words seriously. The mass deportations, threats of violence towards peaceful protestors, and the criminalization of dissent that he campaigned on cannot be accomplished without an unprecedented expansion of mass incarceration. Cameroonian asylum seekers are especially familiar with his harsh deportation and radical immigration enforcement policies. In October and November 2020, amid reports of the mistreatment of Cameroonian asylum seekers in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody, the Trump administration deported dozens back to Cameroon, despite the ongoing risks of danger there and the objections of advocates and members of Congress. Despite these previous policies and divisive language, we remain hopeful. We call on the President-elect to look beyond fear-based approaches and to work toward policies that respect human dignity, protect family unity, and build stronger communities. 

We have an unshakable commitment to our CAN members, grassroots organizers, community partners, and our mission to protect the Black Immigrant community. We advocate to end the inhumane detention and deportation of Cameroonians, establish reparations and humanitarian parole for those unjustly deported, and provide holistic legal, post-release, and resettlement resources to help Cameroonians in the U.S. thrive. We also build international solidarity and highlight the issues faced by Black migrants.

Together, we will continue to stand strong, united, and resilient in the face of these challenges. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared mission.