The Muslim ban

The Muslim Ban, MENA Migration, and the Shattered Dream of America

About the Report

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT

This report reveals how a single policy reshaped migration patterns and deepened inequities across Arab and MENA communities in the United States. By documenting the truth, we take the first step toward justice.

Drawing on both data and lived experience, the report exposes the consequences of when discrimination is written into law. From the steep decline in refugee admissions to the emotional and economic toll on families separated for years, this report is the only one of its kind.

Key Findings

Refugee Arrivals

Data shows that refugee arrivals from countries named in the Muslim Ban dropped by more than

90%

Migration & Family

The policy not only halted visa and refugee processing but also disrupted family-based immigration. Thousands of families were left separated indefinitely, as approval rates for family petitions from the targeted countries collapsed.

Community Orgs

‍Community-based organizations across the country reported dramatic increases in requests for legal, mental health, and housing support in their communities. Yet those same communities adapted and became stronger.

The Evidence is Clear

Refugee resettlement agencies in affected regions lost up to 60% of their federal funding.
Naturalization rates among immigrants from banned countries fell by nearly 40% between 2017 and 2020.
Family visa denials increased by over 250% for individuals from targeted nations.
Mental health referrals for Arab and Muslim clients increased by more than 70% at community-based organizations.

Communities That Rose Together

When policies tried to divide us, community-based organizations came together. Across the country, Arab and Muslim nonprofits expanded legal aid, mental health support, and civic programs — transforming crisis into connection.

The Human Cost of the Muslim Ban

From Detroit to San Diego, local organizations built
new pathways for belonging. They launched advocacy networks, hosted citizenship workshops, and turned isolation into collective power — proving that strength begins with community.

Important to Note

As this report was being published, the Trump administration announced plans to reduce the total refugee admissions ceiling to 7,500, which would be a record low, and a large portion of which will be reserved to resettle South Africans. Both actions place them at odds with immigrant rights advocates, who have castigated the administration for its lowly commitments to the growing global refugee population while reserving a more welcome approach for populations of European origin.

The Muslim Ban wasn't temporary, its legacy continues to shape policy, perception, and the lives of countless families. By documenting data, amplifying lived experience, and elevating the voices of community leaders, we remind policymakers, journalists, and advocates alike: real progress begins with seeing our communities clearly.

Read the report. Share the truth. Help rewrite the narrative.

Download the Report

Access the full report and explore the data.