|
The Network calls for immigration reform without delay
February 10, 2021: The NW Ohio Immigrant Rights Network has
sent a letter to President Joe Biden, Speaker of the House Nancy
Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer urging them
to fulfill their promise of addressing the dire situation of
immigrants and asylees.
Beatriz
Maya,
Director of La Conexión and a founding member of the
Network, says that “Immigration policies have to be humane and
realistic. Our country suffers from an aging population. This
can be easily reversed by opening up to newcomers. For decades
now, we have criminalized 12 million young workers by subjecting
them to an undocumented status, blocking all access for them to
obtain documentation in the US. This needs to stop!”
Deacon Jennifer Vásquez,
a faith-based assistant to the NW Ohio Immigrant Rights Network,
adds that “People of all faiths understand that welcoming
sojourners and appreciating their gifts, and not perpetuating
racism, fear, or animosity towards others, is what brings people
together for the common good, lifting our country to its
brightest future.”
Zeltzin
Contreras,
youth organizer for La Conexión, highlights how “many of
the DACA Dreamers have been on the forefront of the
struggle against COVID - 19, even as health personnel,
risking their lives to protect the community.” The Network
estimates that 5 million essential workers are considered
undocumented.
|
