B Stands for Backbone

Good afternoon,

As we wrap up 2021 and look to the new year, it’s important to reflect on our accomplishments and identify goals for the year ahead.

In the last year, we’ve faced a prolonged humanitarian crisis at the border, a problematic evacuation of our Afghan allies and a Congress that continues to struggle to address our need for legislative solutions on immigration – all with the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the Bibles, Badges and Business network has continued to push for just and compassionate immigration reform. Here are some of our 2021 highlights.

Two longtime members of the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force were nominated for prominent positions in the Department of Homeland Security. Former Tucson Police Chief Chris Magnus was recently confirmed as the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection. LEITF co-chair Sheriff Ed Gonzalez (Harris County, TX) is nominated to be Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is awaiting a full Senate vote. We are proud to have worked with these two law enforcement leaders in the past and know that they share our commitment to immigration reform. We look forward to continuing our partnership with them in the future.

We launched the Council on National Security and Immigration this year to address the need to (1) dispel inaccurate and detrimental arguments that frame immigrants and immigration as a national security threat and (2) clarify that immigration reform will, in fact, benefit our national security and further our national interests. CNSI leaders have already made their voices heard. In the spring, the group called on the Biden administration to raise the refugee ceiling and urgently evacuate our Afghan allies prior to the September troop withdrawal. In the aftermath of the failed evacuation, CNSI sent letters to all state governors dispelling misinformation surrounding the Afghan resettlement process.

Our faith partners have also been active in applying a biblical perspective to immigration reform. Women of Welcome released two Bible studies that focus on how to be bold and brave and provide Christ-like welcome, even in difficult situations. The group also launched two powerful video series: (1) While in Our Care that shares the stories of migrant children walking through the U.S. immigration process and (2) the Equipping Series, a portal of educational videos from a host of subject matter experts, authors, and faith leaders on relevant immigration topics.

We Welcome has mobilized evangelicals to call for an end to Title 42, welcome Haitian migrants and advocate for an Afghan Adjustment Act.

There is still much progress to be made. We at the National Immigration Forum are eager to continue advocating for the value of immigrants and immigration as the backbone of our nation. With your help, we can establish a new consensus on immigration in 2022 and beyond.

Have a hope-filled holiday season,

Adam

Adam Estle
Vice President of Field and Constituencies
National Immigration Forum 

NEWS CLIPS TO NOTE:

ROLL CALL: Biden administration loses appeal in ‘Remain in Mexico’ case

NBC NEWS: Vice President Harris announces private investments in Central America

AXIOS: Scoop: Afghan aid groups meet with NatSec staff

WASHINGTON POST: Eager for new border model, Biden officials look to Europe’s reception centers