ST. LOUIS, MO. – Today marks the official end of the War in Afghanistan, the longest war in U.S. history, thanks to President Biden and the brave American service men and women who facilitated the withdrawal. Four different presidents have presided as the Commander in Chief over this two-decade war that started in 2001 following the September 11th terrorist attack in New York City and continued ten more years after the capture of Osama Bin Laden and the destruction of Al Qaeda.

The fear among Afghans as the Taliban retakes the country is palpable - especially for people who helped or worked with the various American Forces over the past 20 years, women and children. 

120,000 people were evacuated leading up to the August 31st withdrawal and many of them are now global refugees, distraught to leave their homes but anxious for safety and stability. Both St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones and Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas have vowed to accept incoming Afghan refugees into their cities. 

Missouri Democratic Party Executive Director Randy Dunn released this statement Tuesday following President Biden’s national address: 

“Today is a remarkable day in our history, even if we don’t realize it yet. In the decades to come, President Biden will be remembered for bringing Americans back home. Now, there are more people in need of a new home – the Afghan people who became refugees overnight. Our entire state, along with the metro areas of Kansas City and St. Louis, will benefit from Afghan resettlement in our communities. These people coming have helped our service men and women in Afghanistan for 20 years, have technical skills, speak English and believe in the right to freedom just like any American. Our state, our non-profits and our people are willing and able to welcome these Afghans into our homes while we help them build their own.”