The work continues toward compassionate immigration reform

Leading the Way: It's Time for Action

Greetings,

Last week, nearly 300 leaders in the faith, business, law enforcement and national security sectors joined us in Washington D.C. for our annual Leading the Way convening. During this convening, we heard from leaders across our constituencies on the most relevant immigration topics, learning how different institutions and experts are leading the way in advocating for humane and balanced border and immigration solutions. At the end of the week, participants took action and participated in over 50 meetings with congressional offices to advocate for immigration reform.

At Leading the Way, we took time to talk about current realities in immigration, focusing on state-specific legislation and the border, the contribution of immigrants to our society (particularly to the economy and workforce), and the future after the 2024 election earlier this month. We also took a moment to recognize Rep. Suozzi (D-NY-3) and Rep. Luttrell’s (R-TX-8) efforts in working across the aisle to advance bipartisan immigration solutions and heard a keynote address from Former Deputy Secretary of DHS, Elaine Duke. Leaders in the law enforcement, business and advocacy space were awarded the Keepers of the American Dream award for their hard work and leadership in advancing the well-being of immigrants. You can read a summary of the week here and view full-length recordings here.

Immigration has been and will continue to be top of mind for people across the country. The election cycle was full of harmful rhetoric about immigrants and now, we are hearing about potential immigration policies and actions (such as mass deportation) that would be put in place by the elected administration, which would be devastating not only to immigrants but to the American population as a whole.

At the National Immigration Forum, we will continue to lead the way in advocating for bipartisan immigration legislation that prioritizes the long held American values of human dignity, family unity, economic strength, and respect for the rule of law (read our guiding principles here). We have had this mission for over 40 years, regardless of the administration, and it will continue to be our mission moving forward.

(Source: National Immigration Forum Twitter)

When asked to end the panel on developments in state immigration policy with a message of hope, Reyna Montoya, Founder and Executive Director of Aliento in Arizona and DACA recipient told the attendees, "The hope is on you. And the question is simple: what are you willing to do to protect immigrants in this moment?" We all have the responsibility to look after and speak up for our communities. Regardless of the titles we hold or where we’re involved, we can all participate in this call to action to stand with our immigrant neighbors and continue to advocate for humane and balanced solutions.

Thank you for your continued commitment and partnership,

Jennie

Jennie Murray
President and CEO
National Immigration Forum