Week 3: February 03–09
Move Beyond Borders
We live in a society of borders--geographical, sociological, and psychological. Migrants cross borders to build a better life for their families; same-gender couples navigate the boundaries of conventionally accepted love; and transgender individuals challenge the division of societally-defined gender. Some of us must reconcile our overlapping identities, and others must cross borders to embrace those we once considered “other.” Let us explore how we can break down these arbitrary barriers to achieve a more loving society.
The Month Ahead
Wednesday, February 6
“Holy Moses let us live in peace.
Let us strive to find a way to make all hatred cease.
There’s a man over there, what’s his color I don’t care.
He’s my brother let us live in peace.”
– Elton John, “Border Song”
This once-in-a-generation opportunity for comprehensive immigration reform is going to be talk of the 113th Congress. Ravi Ragbir, organizer for the New Sanctuary Coalition of New York City and an undocumented immigrant from Trinidad, will share his personal story of struggling with the broken U.S. immigration system.
Daily Action:
Write to your members of Congress and tell them that we need compassionate, comprehensive immigration reform. Click here to take action.
Congregational Action:
Local congregations and faith leaders can sign on to support the Interfaith Immigration Coalition’s legislative recommendations for immigration reform. Click here to learn more.
Action for Families:
Do you and your child know anyone who came to the United States. from another country? Ask them to tell you about their family – both here and there.
Featured Organizations:
- New Sanctuary Movement
- National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON)
- Interfaith Immigration Coalition
Resources:
- “How Today’s Immigration Enforcement Policies Impact Children, Families, and Communities” from the Center for American Progress
- “The Facts on Immigration Today” from the Center for American Progress
- Breaking Bread and Building Bridges campaign
