The Road from Phoenix: Compassionate Immigration Reform
This spring, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to pass compassionate, comprehensive immigration reform. As people of faith, we must raise our voices for an immigration reform bill that promotes justice and compassion, and that keeps families together. Last year, we stood on the side of love in Phoenix, faithfully witnessing against the harsh practices and policies directed against immigrants and their families. What we did in Phoenix was meaningful, but now what? What is next on the Road from Phoenix?
Congress will likely pass Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) legislation this year and whether it is compassionate in addition to comprehensive depends on how much we and other faith communities influence the outcome.
No matter where you live, you can make a difference in this debate. The first step is to commit to doing an in-district lobby visit, i.e. neighbor-to-neighbor meeting, with your members of Congress. In-district visits are one of the most effective ways to ensure that your voice is heard. Click here for our step-by-step guide to doing an in-district lobby visit.
Your members of Congress will be in their home offices for a “state work period” from March 25 to April 5, so call now and make an appointment to meet with them ASAP. It’s easy to make an appointment to speak with your legislators, and a small group from your community can have a real impact.
Never done a lobby visit before? No worries! Join the Interfaith Immigration Coalition webinar on Monday, March 4 at 4pm ET for an informative presentation on neighbor-to-neighbor visits. Click here and scroll down to “Step 3″ for more details.
With your help, people of faith will play a key role in ensuring that immigration reform is compassionate, and reflects the worth and dignity of all people. Commit to doing an in-district lobby visit today!
In faith,
Susan Leslie
Lead Organizer
Standing on the Side of Love
PS: The first 50 congregations to sign-up will receive a packet of Standing on the Side of Love goodies to support their work–click here to register your in-district visit today!
The message above went out on Monday, February 25, 2013 to Standing on the Side of Love supporters. You can sign-up for these emails here.
