The Pacific Basin Initiative Migrant Communities Devotional
The Pacific Basin Initiative Advocacy Devotionals offer a diverse array of materials designed to foster spiritual growth and reflection within the Pacific Basin region. Through a range of devotional resources, including readings, prayers, videos and reflections, the initiative aims to provide individuals and communities with opportunities for deepening their faith and connection to the divine amidst the unique cultural and environmental contexts of the Pacific Basin.
Migration Throughout the Pacific Basin Region
Migration throughout the Pacific Basin Region, particularly in the context of climate migration, presents complex challenges and opportunities. As climate change accelerates environmental degradation, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events, communities across the region face displacement, compelling many to seek refuge elsewhere. Advocating for the rights of migrants and indigenous communities becomes crucial as they navigate the vulnerabilities associated with migration, including exploitation, discrimination, and loss of cultural identity. Addressing these issues requires collaborative efforts to ensure equitable access to resources, protection of human rights, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. By recognizing the dignity and agency of migrants and indigenous communities, the Pacific Basin can foster inclusive societies and resilience in the face of environmental and social change.
By 2050, 200 Million Climate Refugees May Have Fled Their Homes.
Inside Climate News | Justice & Health By Moira Lavelle.
MIGRATION TOPICS
The scriptures below provide a biblical foundation for engaging in eco-friendly farming practices, addressing climate issues, advocating for climate justice, and promoting stewardship of creation in accordance with our Christian values.
Climate migration
A migrant worker is someone who moves to seek employment opportunities, often crossing borders but also moving within a country. These migrants, along with other minority communities like indigenous groups, face rights violations from governments and dominant groups in their places of residence. In Hong Kong, migrant workers, who are predominantly women, often experience significant income disparities compared to workers from other countries, highlighting systemic inequalities within the labor market. In January 2022, it was reported that a significant population of migrant workers from Hong Kong were primarily from countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Nepal and domestic workers from other parts of Southeast Asia.
Romans 12:13 - Be Welcoming Romans 12:13 encourages believers to practice hospitality by sharing with others in need. This principle holds particular significance for migrant workers and those forced to migrate due to various factors such as climate, wars, and discrimination. For the migrant workers who often leave their homes and families behind in search of employment opportunities, the practice of hospitality can make a significant difference in their lives. By extending hospitality, communities can offer support, acceptance, and a sense of belonging to migrant workers, helping them navigate the challenges of living and working in unfamiliar environments. Additionally, for individuals forced to migrate due to climate-related disasters, conflicts, or persecution, hospitality becomes a lifeline, providing them with essential resources and emotional support as they rebuild their lives in new surroundings. In embracing the principle of hospitality, believers demonstrate Christ-like love and compassion, serving as beacons of hope and refuge for those in need, irrespective of their background or circumstances
Advocating for the Rights of Minority and Indigenous Communities
In Hong Kong and Korea, host communities are partnering to advocate for migrant workers’ rights. Similarly, in the Philippines, partners are advocating for the rights of indigenous groups displaced from their lands by government actions and resource-extracting companies. Additionally, partners in the Pacific Islands are initiating discussions on preserving culture and traditions as they grapple with the prospect of their islands disappearing and relocating to new lands. A migrant worker is someone who moves to seek employment opportunities, often crossing borders but also moving within a country. These migrants, along with other minority communities like indigenous groups, face rights violations from governments and dominant groups in their places of residence. In Hong Kong, migrant workers, who are predominantly women, often experience significant income disparities compared to workers from other countries, highlighting systemic inequalities within the labor market. In January 2022, it was reported that a significant population of migrant workers from Hong Kong were primarily from countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Nepal and domestic workers from other parts of Southeast Asia.
Isaiah 1:17 - Defend those The collaborative efforts in Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands resonate with the call to action found in Isaiah 1:17. In these regions, diverse communities are partnering to advocate for the rights of marginalized groups, including migrant workers, indigenous communities, and those facing cultural displacement due to environmental challenges. Through initiatives such as advocating for migrant workers' rights in host communities and defending indigenous groups affected by displacement in the Philippines, individuals are actively seeking justice and standing up for the oppressed. Additionally, discussions in the Pacific Islands about preserving culture amid environmental threats highlight the importance of defending the rights and dignity of all communities. These collective actions embody the timeless imperative to defend the marginalized and uphold the rights of every individual, contributing to a more just and equitable society guided by compassion and solidarity.
As of July 2023, the minimum wage for domestic workers in Hong Kong (most of whom are migrant workers) is HK$4,730 per month. While in late 2023 USA Today reported an average monthly wage was HK$4,949 per month.
HelperChoice | An Ethical Maid Agency & USA Today
Data provided by the Anti Trafficking Review and the National Institute of Health
GIVING OPPORTUNITIES
Let’s extend our hand to support our global partners.
