28 APRIL 2021

Immigration Hub Statement on President Biden’s Joint Address to Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C.— In response to President Joe Biden’s joint address to Congress, Sergio Gonzales, Executive Director of the Immigration Hub, issued the following statement:

“President Biden assumed office in one of the darkest times of our nation’s history. A crippling pandemic, a faltering economy, cries for racial justice, an insurrection against democracy at our nation’s very capitol, and an immigration system ravaged by the cruel and chaotic policies of the prior administration. And in the span of just 100 days, this administration has made remarkable progress in undoing the destruction and setting us on a new path invested in the humanity, value and prosperity of all people.

“The Biden-Harris administration is moving forward on multiple fronts to implement solutions to transform an antiquated immigration system. We echo President Biden’s words, commending Vice President Harris for taking on the task, with compassion and acumen, to work with our neighbors to the south to address the root causes of migration such as extreme hunger and violence.

“As the president said, Congress must pass legislation to grant a pathway to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants already in our country. The Dream and Promise Act and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act can be passed by the Senate and sent to the president immediately. There’s no better time than now to move forward bold immigration policies to power our recovery and show the American people that we can lead with heart, conviction and the belief that no matter who you are or where you come from, you are part of this union. 

“We can no longer live in the past or in a place of discord and politicking on the backs of communities who have earned, longed for too long to become U.S. citizens. No more excuses or obstructions - Senate Republicans can either deliver legislation long supported by the American people and already passed by the House or they can sit on the sidelines and fail to make history. This cycle of do-nothing but double down on harsh, ineffective policies has to end. 

“It’s time to deliver a new, modern immigration system worthy of our most cherished values and at its center, must be permanent protections for the many undocumented immigrants who were critical to helping us get through this most challenging time and are foundational to our recovery.”

ICYMI: The Immigration Hub’s 100 Day Progress Report on Biden’s Approach to Immigration 

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The Immigration Hub is a national organization dedicated to advancing fair and just immigration policies through strategic leadership, innovative communications strategies, legislative advocacy and collaborative partnerships.