Friend,

This Independence Day, we take stock of the values and vision that tie us together. As I reflect on the significance of this holiday for our country, coupled with the long overdue recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, I am inspired by the millions of essential workers who, even during the deadliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, have worked arduously to keep us all safer and our country running. Over the past year we have been reminded of our interconnectedness; we have seen the pre-existing fractures in our health, safety-net, economic and immigration systems; and we experienced a global outcry for racial justice and equity in our nation. In contemplation of last year’s challenges and victories, I am reminded that our country has so much work to do to finally live up to its promise as a beacon of hope, of freedom, and of justice for all. As painful and difficult as this past year has been, there are signs of transformation all around us, which point the way to the country we must become.

For us at the National Immigration Law Center, this promise also includes the freedom to thrive for each of us: the right to political freedom, religious expression, and joy; the ability to make decisions about our lives, health, relationships, dreams, and future; and the responsibility that we share to take care of ourselves, each other, and our planet.  

In order for us all to have the freedom to thrive, we need inclusive healthcare for all, a new economic model that works for all of us, and a long-overdue pathway to U.S. citizenship for all immigrants and their loved ones who call this country home. Only by breaking away from oppressive systems can we create an environment where everyone can reap the benefits of independence, justice, and freedom.  

The reckoning of the past several years continues to make one thing abundantly clear: our collective health and well-being depends on all of us being healthy; our freedom to thrive depends on all of us being able to thrive. We need transformative change. The United States must leap forward to becoming a country that welcomes immigrants and refugees while ensuring that we create opportunities for everyone in our country — no matter how much money we have, what we look like, or where we were born — to be healthy and have the freedom to thrive. 

Wishing you a safe and happy Independence Day!  

Sincerely, 

Marielena Hincapié
Executive Director, National Immigration Law Center

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