Immigration
Like many people around the country, I was shocked and saddened by the devastating news of the harsh illegal immigrant enforcement law in Arizona, and similar legislation across the country that separates families and strips the dignity and unity of our human community.
MAY 1-2 has been declared a WEEKEND OF PRAYER FOR IMMIGRANTS. Catholics will pray for fair and just immigration policy that respects our core values including human life, human dignity and family unity during Sunday Masses. Many will also participate in vigils, prayer services and other activities to support immigrants and reform legislation that keeps families together and adopts smart and humane enforcement policies. Click here for a sample prayer.
On Saturday, May 1st, in cities all throughout the U.S., millions of people will be requesting that President Obama show leadership and do all he can to move comprehensive immigration reform forward now. Dozens of marches are planned across the country. To find out if you are near an event, please go to www.wemarchforamerica.org. (Rallies are scheduled for Chicago, Naperville and Lake County).
Prayerful Interfaith Demonstration at Broadview Detention Center
On Monday evening of April 26, a large number of citizens, clergy and young adults gathered at the Broadview Detention Center (Broadview, IL). They prayed, sang and chanted in order to demonstrate the need for a compassionate immigration reform in light of recent Anti-Immigrant legislation in Arizona. Early Tuesday morning on April 27, a group of interfaith religious leaders and advocates concluded the event with a final gathering and prayer. The results of this event have been positive and peaceful, and the Chief of Police of Broadview broke bread with the leaders of the demonstration at breakfast.
As more events such as these take place across the country, let us pray to the Spirit to continue to guide the protestors in peaceful means, and for a transformation of heart and mind of government leaders.
Let's get the Senate to do something about immigration
Our country needs a new way to think about immigration. Too many lives, jobs, and families have been disrupted by our current immigration framework, which isn't working for anyone. Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) has been working to craft and introduce legislation that would reform our immigration system.
In an effort to recruit critical bipartisan support, Sen. Schumer is reaching out to Republican senators. Now is the perfect time for you to call/email your senators and tell them how important it is to support this effort to change our immigration policy. Comprehensive Immigration Reform will keep families together, secure our borders, strengthen our economy, and protect American workers.
Urge your senators to support Comprehensive Immigration Reform now. You can find a sample message to e-mail to them here: http://capwiz.com/networklobby/issues/alert/?alertid=14944941&type=CO and/or you can call them via the Capitol switchboard 202-224-3121.