Dear Editor:
Immigration reform is a hot button issue that elicits intense emotions and varying opinions. But most people agree America’s immigration system is broken and must be fixed. For far too long, true immigration reform has been stalled and used as a political football by both pundits and politicians. That’s why I applaud President Barack Obama for taking decisive action on this critical issue.
The president’s immigration proposal isn’t amnesty, it’s a responsible and humane plan that gives millions of undocumented residents the opportunity to gain legal status, defer their deportations and allow them to work legally. Instead of hiding in the shadows, these hard working immigrants who just want a fair shot at the American dream, can finally come out into the light and contribute even more to our society without fear of being deported, without fear of their families being broken apart, without fear of being labeled a second class citizen. Undocumented people want nothing more than to realize the promise of equality upon which America was founded – that all are created equal.
As the son of a mother who immigrated to the United States, I know the pride she felt when she became an American citizen. I felt it too. And now I am proud to represent the people of the 33rd legislative district, one of the most diverse areas of the state. In Hudson County, we embrace and celebrate this melting pot of cultures, languages, and customs.
President Obama’s executive order isn’t perfect, nor is it the complete solution. But it is progress. It’s a bold step in the right direction that will bring a renewed sense of seriousness to the conversation on immigration in America.
In the spirit of the holiday season, let’s try to work together on this and other issues because at the end of the day we all have the same goal, to preserve our freedom and live in peace.
I am grateful and honored to serve you. Visit www.carmelogarcia.com for more information.
Sincerely,
Carmelo G. Garcia
Assemblyman, 33rd District