Summary

King County Executive Dow Constantine issued the following statement on the looming refugee and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan following the collapse of the Afghan government:

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"With the collapse of the Afghan government, King County stands ready to welcome those who seek a better life for themselves and their families in the United States. As we watch the heartbreaking images, we must also remember the sacrifice of our servicemembers and their families, and the suffering of the Afghan people over many decades of war. It is imperative that state and federal leaders provide all available resources to assist in refugee resettlement in this humanitarian crisis, and we will do everything we can to aid in that mission.

"King County is home to some of the most diverse immigrant and refugee communities in the nation. The fabric of our community is continually strengthened by those who arrive here from other nations, whether under duress or by choice. Our guiding principle, our True North, is that we will always be a welcoming community where every person can thrive. That value, that inherent belief that all of us make this community greater than the sum of our parts, will guide us forward."

For more information, contact:

Chase Gallagher, Executive Office, 206-263-8537