Click
HERE to view a Powerpoint presentation about the role of racism in the controversial Arizona SB1070.
 Simple Acts of WelcomeThe Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service suggests some simple ways that you can demonstrate your support for fair and humane immigration policies. Click HERE for the latest immigration news from the Action Alert Digest. |
Immigration
Americans are justifiably frustrated and angry with our outdated and broken immigration system. The problem is complex, and a comprehensive, national solution is necessary. To suggest that the U.S. can deport its way out of the problem by removing 11 million people is unrealistic. The U.S. needs a fair, practical solution that addresses the underlying causes of unauthorized immigration and creates a new, national legal immigration system for the 21st century.
The principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) stem from the solidarity of the human family and our commitment to the common good - a virtue that seeks to go beyond itself to forgiveness and reconciliation. It leads to a new vision of the unity of humankind. It is the unity that binds us together and extends our compassion to all people. Solidarity includes the Scriptural call to welcome the stranger among us-including immigrants seeking work, a safe home, education for their children, and a decent life for their families.
Our commitment to CST impels us to stand with the poor and vulnerable, to uphold everyone's fundamental right to life and the necessities of life including the right to work and to be treated fairly at work.
This state of terror for families is evidence that our political system has not adequately addressed the demand for labor, the inadequacies of our present immigration policies and practices, and the broader economic challenges. Some of the weakest members among us are bearing the brunt of the suffering, while legislators and other leaders, as well as many of us in the general public, have failed to give this issue the priority that it deserves.
Leaders in the Catholic community, as well as many other religious leaders, have called for comprehensive immigration reform which strives:
- To create legal avenues for workers and their families who wish to enter our country and work in a safe, legal, and orderly manner with their rights fully protected.
- To develop border protection policies that are consistent with humanitarian values and with the need to treat all individuals with respect.
- To allow authorities to carry out the critical task of identifying and preventing entry of terrorists and dangerous criminals, as well as pursuing the legitimate task of implementing American immigration policy
CORPORATE PUBLIC STAND:
Read the Corporate Public Stand taken by the Sisters of St. Francis, Clinton, Iowa
HERE.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
Get the Facts: There are many myths surrounding the immigration issue. Read about the
most common myths and learn about the realities as compiled by Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service.
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