Reform Movement Welcomes Introduction of Senate Immigration Bill

 Laser: "A path to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants here today, a renewed commitment to clearing systemic backlogs, a plan for processing future flow of immigrants, and a reasonable approach to enforcement are all cornerstones of the Reform Movements immigration priorities, and we are pleased to see such policies reflected in todays legislation."

Contact: Sean Thibault or Sarah Krinsky
202.387.2800 | news@rac.org

Washington, D.C., April 17, 2013 - In response to the introduction of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013, Rachel Laser, Deputy Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, issued the following statement:

 

"As an historic supporter of comprehensive immigration policies, the Reform Movement enthusiastically welcomes this momentous step toward the long-overdue passage of reform legislation. We applaud the Gang of 8 for their tireless work on this crucial issue, and commend their bipartisanship on a topic that so intimately touches the lives of Americans of all ages, races, nationalities, and political parties.

 

We are encouraged by many of the key provisions in the Senate bill released this morning. A path to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants here today, a renewed commitment to clearing systemic backlogs, a plan for processing future flow of immigrants, and a reasonable approach to enforcement are all cornerstones of the Reform Movements immigration priorities, and we are pleased to see such policies reflected in todays legislation.

 

We understand the nature of compromise and balance, and as such celebrate this bipartisan bill. At the same time, we know we can do better, and call upon our elected representatives to continue to strengthen this bill and to work to ensure justice for our nations immigrants. That includes justice for all family members, including brothers, sisters, and spouses, of all genders; justice for those who must wait too long to become citizens; and justice for contributing members of our economy and society who are denied basic rights and benefits.

 

Jewish tradition teaches, ¥in a place where there is no humanity, strive to be human (Pirkei Avot 2:6). Todays bill is an important start toward restoring humanity in our immigration system and throughout our nation. We welcome this legislation, and look forward to continuing to work with Congress on its development in the weeks and months to come."