As the 117th Congress begins its final session, it’s crucial for Congress to take immediate action to protect immigrants. The Florida Immigrant Coalition, as part of FIRM Action, is urging members of Congress to enact permanent protections for as many people as possible. They must work together across the aisle, to address the urgent need our immigrant communities are facing before the end of the year. Our strength as a country is greater when we welcome newcomers. Immigrants are an essential part of our communities—as our classmates, colleagues, neighbors, and friends. Almost 3 out of every 4 undocumented immigrants perform essential work, from caring for elderly Americans and children to putting food on our tables. The time for Congress to act is now. Congress must recognize that our strength as a country has always been greater when we choose to welcome.
Tessa Petit, Executive Director of The Florida Immigrant Coalition stated:
“When then-presidential candidate, Joe Biden, came to Miami, to Little Haiti, asking for our community’s support, we obliged. We were proud to stand with a candidate who spoke of the value and inherent humanity of us all, and of the contributions of immigrants to the country. We are now asking the administration to stand with us! And we are demanding our representatives in Congress do what this country is known for-- being a beacon of hope and a safe-harbor for those seeking democracy, security, and opportunities. In order to heal the soul of the nation, we must show political courage to do what is morally right. Families are once again knocking at our door fleeing for their lives and we must do the right thing or we must stop dealing in platitudes that only amount to unkept promises. This is the moment!”
Executive Director of Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition (PICC) and Co-Chair of FIRM Action Andy Kang said:
“Congress and President Biden have an opportunity to deliver relief to our immigrant communities in these next few weeks. The undeniable truth is that our undocumented loved ones and neighbors are integral to America's success and Congress has for far too long failed to honor that fact by delivering results. Quite simply, America needs real progress on immigration to restore trust in our political leaders and help break through all of the misinformation and noise. This November, a large majority of Pennsylvania voters strongly rejected toxic anti-immigrant political messaging and it should signal to Congress and President Biden that they must act with more courage and urgency to deliver for American families who continue to live in a perpetual state of limbo and fear. Relief must be delivered by the end of the year. Real lives are at stake.”