Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island applauds the Senate passage of S.744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013 and the leadership of Senator Jack Reed and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse in supporting this important legislation. While far from perfect, and with a long road ahead still in the House, the bill allows for a pathway to citizenship for immigrants currently living in the United States that do not qualify for legal status under existing law. Today’s vote is an undeniable affirmation of our country as a nation of immigrants. Native Americans and immigrants from many nations have settled in “Little Rhody” for hundreds of years. From an Industrial mill area to an increasingly 21st century global hub, Rhode Island has a history of welcoming diverse waves of immigrants and refugees to its shores. This vote is a victory for the roughly 1 in 8 Rhode Islanders (13.5% of Rhode Island’s population) who are foreign-born who have been contributing to our state and make up 16% of Rhode Island’s workforce. Moreover, the Act represents an opportunity to lead to more vibrant and cohesive communities as we integrate individuals who enhance our combined culture and strengthen our neighborhoods. With the Senate standing on the right side of history, today’s vote is a step forward in enhancing our shared future. We look forward to continuing to advocate on behalf of Rhode Island’s foreign-born community and are hopeful that the House of Representatives will follow suit in making immigration reform a reality.
Posted on: Thu, 27 Jun 2013 20:39:04 +0000
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