Friend, this International Women’s Day, we are honoring and reflecting on the courage, resilience, and power of immigrant women. We are mothers, daughters, friends, neighbors, essential workers, and community leaders, and we play a vital role in this country.

Today, I’m especially thinking of my mother, who immigrated with my father to the U.S. in the 1960s in pursuit of a better life. She was determined to give my siblings and me opportunities that she could only imagine as a child in Mexico, including the ability to pursue an education.

I was so proud when I graduated with my bachelor’s degree and later my master’s degree with my parents cheering me on, because my educational achievements are a testament to their sacrifices.

I know that so many of us have stories about women and loved ones who worked, sacrificed, and persevered to get us where we are today. So, friend, as we take the day to recognize them, let’s push this country to do the same.

We must work to ensure our government welcomes immigrant women and their loved ones with dignity at our border.

We must center immigrant women in our fight for fair wages, health care for all, education access, safe workplaces, racial justice, and so much more.

We must advocate for laws and policies that honor the unique impact immigrant women have on our families, communities, and country.

We are grateful to have you in the fight with us.

Thank you,

Victoria Ballesteros Ramírez
Executive Vice President, Strategic Communications & Narrative
National Immigration Law Center