Immigration Reform

There is good news to share. As a result of the advocacy efforts of so many faith-based churches and organizations, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, said that she will delay a series of  proposed immigration RAIDS. Instead the department will focus on businesses and executives instead of ordinary workers. Secretary Napolitano will study the situation carefully before determining future action.  http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2009/03/29/20090329immig0329.html.  

Senator Richard Durbin (IL) and Senator Dick Lugar (IN) have introduced the bi-partisan Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM Act). Such legislation would permit undocumented students to become permanent residents if they came here as children, are long-term U.S. citizens have good moral character, and attend college or enlist in the military for two years. To read Senator Durbin’s statement visit http://www.nilc.org/immlawpolicy/DREAM/Durbin-press-statement-2009-03-26.pdf.To advocate go to http://icirr.e-actionmax.com/tf.asp?aacwc=363233423560676646318289  

The Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), has now requested that Kroger Company join McDonalds, Burger King and Whole Foods, in paying their employees one penny more a pound for picked tomatoes. The CIW is also asking for a safer work environment for its employees. The Wheaton Franciscans have been supportive of the CIW struggle for a number of years. Post cards can be signed and sent to the CEO Mr. David Dillon of the Kroger Company. To learn more about the Immokalee workers visit http://www.ciw-online.org/index.html