The Common Good

Sojourners Applauds Introduction of Comprehensive Immigration Reform in United States Senat

Source: Sojourners
Date: October 18, 2010

For Immediate Release

October 18, 2010

Contact: Tim King, 202-745-4636

Sojourners Applauds Introduction of Comprehensive

Immigration Reform in United States Senate

WASHINGTON, DC -- Just before the congressional recess, Sen. Robert Menendez

(D-NJ) and Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) introduced comprehensive immigration reform legislation in

the United States Senate. The following is a statement from Rev. Jennifer Kottler, director of policy

and advocacy at Sojourners:

"In accordance with our principles as Christians in support of immigration reform, we affirm the key

principles contained within the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act (S. 3932) introduced by Sen.

Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT). This bill addresses the complex issue of

immigration reform in a truly comprehensive and holistic manner. Our Christian faith teaches us that

there is an undeniable responsibility to love and show compassion for the stranger among us, and this

legislation reflects that moral directive.

"We are committed to seeing an immigration bill that respects the dignity of people, protects workers,

keeps families together, and provides for humane immigration enforcement practices. We are pleased

to see special provisions for students, farm workers, and families in the bill, as well as significant

reforms to immigrant detention practices. We also affirm family unity as the cornerstone of U. S.

immigration policy and would not support overly punitive border enforcement measures that conflict

with humanitarian values and could possibly delay implementation of a legalization program.

"The faith community will continue to play a critical role in bringing lawmakers, advocates,

immigrants, and people of faith to the table as details are discussed and debated. We look forward to

working with Congress in the coming months on this issue, which is at the very heart of our Christian

conviction.”

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Sojourners' mission is to articulate the biblical call to social justice, inspiring hope and building a movement to transform individuals, communities, the church, and the world.

To read the Joint Statement of Principles of Christians for Comprehensive Immigration Reform, visit www.faithandimmigration.org/content/about-ccir