We at Border Action Network applaud CIR-A.S.A.P.’s progressive vision and workable solution

On Tuesday, December 15th, a coalition that reflects the diversity of America took the first steps toward passing comprehensive immigration reform in 2010.  Representatives of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Congressional Asian and Pacific Americans Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus, and Congressional Progressive Caucus joined Congressman Luis Gutierrez, to introduce the “Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America’s Security Act and Prosperity” (CIR-A.S.A.P.) in the House of Representatives.  The bill is a sign of progress and momentum for action on real, common sense immigration reform in this Congress. The legislation will protect workers, keep families together, and promote our national security while ensuring that we stay true to our values as a nation of immigrants.

“We can’t afford more delay – it’s time to fix our broken immigration system and heal our borders. Today was a big step in the right direction” remarked Jennifer Allen, our Executive Director.  “We can never forget that the immigration reform debate is about real people.  Every day our immigration system remains broken is another day that someone loses their life on the border, when bad-actor employers exploit immigrants in and children are separated from their parents.  Arizonans need reform that is just, humane, and finally puts our state on the road to economic recovery.”

Over the past year, we at Border Action have launched a statewide campaign to train Latino families in the basics of civic participation in preparation for the immigration reform debate. We have also sent more than 13,000 postcards to President Obama, Senator McCain and local congressional representatives calling on them to support immigration reform.

“These members have delivered on their promise to introduce a bill in time for the holiday recess.  Now it’s time for the Senate to act,” said Allen.  “An overwhelming majority of Americans want practical solutions to our broken immigration system that promote our best values and uphold our traditions as a nation of immigrants and laws. Americans want an immigration system that will be fair and serve the real interests of hardworking taxpayers, workers, employers, and families across America.”

Arizonans have joined with Americans all over the country who are organizing to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Last month, at least 60,000 Americans participated in more than 1,000 house parties in 45 states. We held 70 house parties that brought together at least 750 people across the state. People have been mobilizing, taking action, and making their voices heard by texting “justice” or “justicia” to 69866 and getting connected to the Reform Immigration for America campaign. They are also calling 1-866-974-8813 to tell the White House to keep its promise, and act to pass comprehensive immigration reform this year.

To read a great summary of the bill by UC Davis Immigration Professor Bill Hing, click here.

Take action! Click here to sign and send a message to your Congressional Representative urging them to support Gutierrez's bill!