Trends in legislation and their impact on immigrants and coalitions Presented by: Ruth Burgos-Sasscer Montgomery County, MD
Why go there? Impacts the lives of the immigrants Impacts the future of Literacy Coalitions Important to be informed
What are some of the concerns? Federal laws inadequate and outdated State/local ordinances filling the vacuum Some laws/ordinances unconstitutional Some laws/ordinances negatively impact legal and illegal immigrants Much information is confusing and contradictory Prejudices and hate crimes lifting their ugly heads
What issues need to be addressed? Immigration legislation a federal responsibility Realistic, beneficial and enforceable immigration policy needed Distinguish between myths and facts Contribution of immigrants to economic success of US Increasing need in the US for additional workers Importance of English instruction Immigrants need benefits/services to integrate into American society
Anti-immigration trends Restrict access to public benefits and services Mandate verification of employment eligibility Restrict congregations of day laborers Establish “English-only” policies Impose restrictive housing policies Require state/local police to serve as immigration agents Restrict access to driver's licenses
Pro-immigrant trends Use state funds for migrant daycare, ESL and other programs Extend public benefits to migrant workers Appropriate funds for migrant health and legal centers Subsidize housing facilities for low-income migrant workers Provide benefits to immigrants excluded from federal benefits Supplement income of immigrants not eligible for TANF Mandate bilingual staff at some state agencies
Immigrant response to anti- immigrant trends Fear of being deported Won't use services that are available Ignore health problems Won't enroll in ESL classes May drive without license Keep a low profile May seek sanctuary
Consequences for Coalitions Decrease in grants/donations Cannot provide needed services to some immigrants Cannot prepare some immigrants for workforce or citizenship
What can be done? Keep abreast of legislation Inform immigrants of rights and benefits they do have Continue to offer programs and services that benefit immigrants Collect data to demonstrate Coalition impact on community Share immigrant success stories with elected officials Support candidates that advocate realistic and enforceable laws