This is an excruciating time for those of us who have been working for years for a more humane and just immigration policy. I’m deeply concerned and I’m writing you a more in-depth message than usual to bring you in the fold.
First, hundreds of Bend the Arc members have been actively working to block the awful Senate immigration bill. From what we’re hearing, this bill would not provide desperately needed pathways to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants, improve how asylum claims are processed at the border, or fund community-based alternatives to inhumane immigrant detention.
Instead, it would likely close off one of the few remaining paths to immigration by making it nearly impossible to exercise the right to seek asylum, increase the surveillance and deportations of immigrant families, and allow the President to completely shut down the border like Trump did with the inhumane Title 42 during the pandemic. In fact, President Biden stated on Friday that if given this authority, he would shut down the border immediately.1
Second, more and more Democrats are adopting right-wing frames around border security, and our immigrant family is paying the price. Many, including the press and politicians, should know better: the MAGA idea that our immigration system problems are simply border problems is wrong and dangerous. In reality, we have an intentionally chaotic, racist, and cruel immigration system made worse by political posturing.
The way immigrants are being cynically manipulated is a threat to the liberated future we are fighting for. I hope you’ll join me in channeling our vision, care, and anger into action. Here’s what you can do:
- Rush a gift: Donate to help save asylum and protect our immigrant family. Your support will power our advocacy work, including educating members of Congress on the dangers of this package and urging them to vote no.
- Make a call: Tell your Senators to vote NO on the Senate immigration proposal when it comes to a vote, which could be as early as this week. You can use our easy call tool here with everything you need.
In solidarity,
Rabbi Jason Kimelman-Block
Washington Director, Bend the Arc
Sources:
1. Statement from President Joe Biden On the Bipartisan Senate Border Security Negotiations, WhiteHouse.gov
