FWD.us President Todd Schulte issued the following statement after tonight’s decision allowing the Trump Administration to bar nearly every person from seeking asylum at the southern border:

“Tonight’s decision means the Trump Administration will be allowed to essentially terminate the asylum system at the Southern Border. Coupled with the gutting of the refugee program, this is a massive reversal of American leadership to protect the most vulnerable people fleeing extreme violence and persecution from around the world, and is part of an awful pursuit to restrict nearly every legal immigration avenue. For decades, the United States has been made stronger, more prosperous, and more vibrant because of the contributions of people seeking asylum and refuge on our shores. Tonight, the Trump Administration has effectively shut the doors of America to those seeking asylum and a better life.

“While this goes into effect immediately, it is not a final decision as case will be heard on the merits in the courts, and we hope this decision will be reversed.”