This week, the Migrant Power Alliance launched a National Action against deportations. The group is calling on Democratic New York U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer to champion family unity and remove the punitive components of immigration reform.
Monica Arias Miranda of the Hispanic Coalition, New York says immigration reformists have been directing a lot of their efforts toward Schumer.
Miranda, who last fall launched an unsuccessful campaign for the state Senate seat now held by Cecilia Tkaczyk, was among DREAMers and Latino leaders from across New York who last week delivered an open letter expressing their concern about Senator Schumer’s current immigration record, which they say has focused on more enforcement than family unity.
Schumer's office did not return calls for comment. Republican Congressman Chris Gibson says he is encouraged by ongoing bi-partisan discussions in Washington, where immigration reform has gained traction in an otherwise gridlocked capitol.
Joe Gergela with the Long Island Farm Bureau, hails it as a major sign of progress that local immigrant and union advocates were able to sit down with business leaders Monday in Patchogue and find common ground on comprehensive immigration reform.
Gergela and other forum attendees agree fixing the nation’s immigration system will boost job creation. Immigrant advocates throughout the state say they look forward to working with New York lawmakers, business and labor leaders on the issue.
