THE TIME FOR MISSTEPS IS OVER

Washington, DC—NCLR (National Council of La Raza), the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, today urged the administration and Congress to reject the failed strategies of the past and heed public demand for sensible, real solutions to our broken immigration system.

Last month, the President declared that he intends to see comprehensive immigration reform passed, and Senator Charles Schumer announced that he plans to introduce a comprehensive immigration reform bill by Labor Day.  However, in the last few days, the Obama administration and the Senate took steps in the wrong direction.  The White House and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) decided to expand E-Verify, a flawed employment verification system that by multiple accounts is in serious need of improvement.  The Senate, in considering DHS appropriations, followed suit by adopting multiple amendments related to border fencing and expansion of E-Verify.

“It’s time to stop the missteps, half-steps, and back-steps on immigration,” said Janet Murguía, NCLR President and CEO.   “The country wants immigration reform, the Latino community is waiting for it, our families are suffering, and we need to see some serious progress.”

The American people support a comprehensive overhaul of the immigration system in which the restoration of the rule of law includes legalization and sensible enforcement.  Polls have consistently shown that a strong majority of Americans want Congress to advance fair, comprehensive immigration reform.  In a recent national poll, 75% of respondents supported congressional action on immigration reform in 2009. 

Murguía added, “NCLR urges the administration and Congress to demonstrate leadership by avoiding piecemeal attempts to address the country’s broken immigration system and instead advance an effective, comprehensive solution.” 

For more information, please visit www.nclr.org.