The Rt Revd Leo Frade, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida, has expressed his concern for the plight of the Haitian refugees who arrived on American soil this week.

"These people, whose desperation and courage led them to undertake a dangerous voyage to escape the political violence in their own country, are now in jail," he said.

It is believed that many of them will remain in detention for an indefinite period, while their claims are processed, as a result of an INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service) regulation which is directed only at asylum-seekers from Haiti. This process may take many months.

"To add to their distress," said Bishop Frade. "Families have been separated, with men held in one facility while their wives and children have been taken elsewhere."

In April 2002, Amnesty International announced that asylum-seekers from Haiti are being subject to indefinite detention in the USA, without adequate opportunity to present their claims for asylum and in conditions which are unsuitable for refugees. According to the bishop, the situation has not improved.

"Scripture teaches us again and again to welcome the stranger, reminding us that God's love and hospitality are without limits, and that all people are our neighbours," Bishop Frade added. "I believe that we are obligated as Americans, of whatever faith, or no faith, to treat with respect and fairness everyone who comes to our shores.

"I ask the prayers of all Episcopalians, and all persons of faith, for the safety and well-being of the 235 persons who are now in detention here, for wisdom and compassion for our government as it deals with their situation, and for the nation of Haiti, that it may become a country whose people feel no need to flee for their lives."

Bishop Frade was indicted in 1980 for helping Cuban refugees during the Mariel boatlift. He was later acquitted.