Opportunity:
Fulfill Our Promise to Immigrants
“I'm the daughter of refugees. The immigrant mentality is to work hard, be brave, and never give up in your pursuit of achieving the American dream.”
— Reshma Saujani, Founder of Girls Who Code
The Issue
As the son of an African immigrant, I understand the aspirations and challenges of those who journey to the U.S. in pursuit of the American dream.
Today's immigration challenges call for a compassionate and comprehensive response. As increasing economic inequalities, political unrest, and environmental crises drive individuals globally to seek refuge within our borders, our outdated immigration system often falls short. We must fix its systemic issues, which include extensive delays, severe enforcement methods, and the painful separation of families. Our approach should focus on humane solutions, a direct pathway to citizenship for the undocumented, and collaboration with neighboring nations to address root causes and forge a just and sustainable future for our children and grandchildren.
What I’ve Done So Far
I am deeply committed to making our communities more welcoming to immigrants and their families. As a local official, I have worked to ensure that immigrants have equal access to every county program. During COVID-19, I was proud to support direct financial assistance to undocumented immigrants living in our county even in the face of legal challenges. I have also been proud to stand with organizations such as CASA to champion the rights of TPS and DACA recipients, and to support legal representation for detained immigrants facing deportation. I've also consistently spoken out and joined counter-protests against hate and anti-immigrant rhetoric to uphold the rights and dignity of our immigrants.
What I Will Do in the Senate
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The strength of America lies in its diversity and the promise of equal opportunity for all. It's time we acknowledge the contributions of those living in the shadows by enacting comprehensive immigration reform, including outlining a pathway to citizenship for individuals and families who have resided within the U.S. for long periods and call this country their home. Every individual who seeks to contribute positively to our nation deserves a chance to do so.
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Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a life-changing program that allows children who were raised in this country to stay in this country. A subject of constant Republican attacks, I will defend the continued support for DACA in the Senate.
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America has always been a haven for those fleeing persecution and adversity. We must rebuild and reform our refugee and asylum processes to ensure we continue to stand as a beacon of hope and sanctuary for those in dire need.