Long Island Wins: Immigrant Communities Commend Senators for Exploring Start to Reform Immigration

Thursday, April 30, 2009
Port Washington, NY - Today, Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) will hold his first hearing as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Immigration, Border Security, and Refugees. The hearing is titled Comprehensive Immigration Reform in 2009, Can We Do It and How?” and is expected to explore the national need to reform immigration, and the feasibility for legislation this year. The following is a statement by Maryann Sinclair Slutsky, Campaign Director of Long Island Wins:

“We are encouraged by the Judiciary Subcommittee’s hearing today and commend Senator Schumer’s willingness to discuss the urgent need to reform immigration for America . The hearing follows recent comments by the White House on its commitment to reform immigration, and represents a very positive indication that immigration reform is on track and moving forward in this Congress. This is another sign that momentum is building for Congress to reform immigration this year.”
“The Subcommittee is expected to hear testimony from a wide range of panelists, including notable experts and from law enforcement, economics, faith, labor, and civil rights. These panelists will testify about the nation’s need for immigration reform. Here on Long Island, we see everyday, how reform would impact and improve the economic, spiritual, and civic life of our American communities.”
“Families and communities, immigrant and native-born alike should feel there is good reason to hope and to renew faith in a government that is willing to find practical solutions that reflect the best of our shared American values, and not succumb to the petty politics of fear and hate.”
“As many communities prepare for tomorrow’s vigils and rallies, today’s hearing explores some of the very substantive reasons why America needs reform of its immigration system. It is clear - America needs a just, fair, and humane immigration system that protects and upholds our shared American values, that protect families, workers, and the economy. We need a practical solution that works.”
“Congress needs to reform immigration so that all working families in America are protected equally. We need to reform immigration for all families and communities, and for the long-term economic recovery that America needs.”

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Contact: Maryann Sinclair Slutsky, 516 304-5641, mslutsky@longislandwins.com