Invisible no more—Immigrant mobilizations around the country

During the first five months of 2006, the United State witnessed an unprecedented demonstration of immigrant civic participation, as immigrants from cities around the country took to the streets to express their support for comprehensive immigration reform and opposition to H.R. 4437, the harsh legislative proposal approved by the US House of Representatives in December, 2005.

Members of the National Alliance of Latin American and Caribbean Communities played a leadership role in organizing the large public mobilizations in many cities. Angela Sanbrano, President of NALACC, commented on the creativity and diversity of the immigrant mobilizations. “Immigrant communities, organized in many different ways, under many different leaders, in many different places around the country are demonstrating their commitment to civic and democratic participation,” noted Ms. Sanbrano. “Through a diverse set of activities, marches, vigils, religious celebrations, work stoppages, and a variety of consumer campaigns, our communities are expressing their support for immigrants and rejection of bad legislation that promotes hate and fear, such as H.R. 4437,” she continued.

The community mobilization efforts which began at the end of February serve as a powerful example of the democratic convictions embedded in immigrant communities. “NALACC will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen immigrant organizations so they can have a voice in decisions that impact the lives of their communities,” commented Marcia Soto, Vice President of NALACC. “Given the chance, immigrants can and will make a lasting contribution to strengthening our democracy over the long term,” she added.