Immigration News: General – Immigration and Women in North Carolina

An excerpt from ncpolicywatch.org. Click on the link above for the whole story.
“The Second Cooler, a film by Ellin Jimmerson and narrated by Martin Sheen, is a documentary about the struggle for migrant justice. Although the film primarily focuses on Arizona, the issues it highlights are very relevant right here in North Carolina: anti-immigrant state policies, the abuses in the H-2B and H-2A guestworker programs, the lack of way for poor Mexicans to legally immigrate to the United States, and the devastating impact of free trade agreements on Mexico driving Mexicans to migrate north.”

Profile of Syrian Immigrants in the United States

November 1, 2015

MEDIA RELEASE: New hot-line available to report problems with House Bill 318

October 30, 2015

Due to Pat McCrory’s action in signing the House Bill 318, an anti-immigration bill, the North Carolina Justice Center is providing a hot-line service where people can help track the impact of this policy. The North Carolina Justice Center encourages anyone who has experienced problems as a result of the law to call the hot-line: (919) 526-0676. Please click on the link for their full statement.

Breaking News: Statement from the NC Justice Center: House Bill 318 takes our state down the wrong path

October 28, 2015

On October 28, 2015, Governor Pat McCrory signed the House Bill 318. The North Carolina Justice Center makes a statement that they are deeply disappointed by Gov. Pat McCrory’s decision to sign HB 318. The NC Justice Center states that they have consistently called for the Governor to veto what they consider to be a harmful legislation. In their opinion, the law undermines how local governments address their own needs when it comes to immigrant communities and makes North Carolina appear to be a hostile place for newcomers of all identities. (www.ncjustice.org). Follow this link for the entire statement.

North Carolina Women United: “Veto This Bill”

October 20, 2015

The North Carolina Women United organization has proclaimed that they are proud to and will stand by the immigrant community and urge Pat McCrory to veto the House Bill 318 legislation. The NCWU claim that this bill is not about protecting North Carolina workers. Instead, it is about scapegoating the immigrant community for the failures of our state leadership to contribute to a robust economy that benefits all. In their opinion, this bill enforces racist beliefs in an effort to manipulate voters and further consolidate power and wealth. Click on the link to read the entire story.

Has the U.S. Really Shifted on Deportations?

October 20, 2015

Last year President Obama made policy changes that shifted protocols towards which undocumented immigrants would be targeted for deportation. In November of 2014, Obama stated that certain undocumented immigrants would be prioritized for deportation; felons, criminals, gang members, etc. will be prioritized over families, children, and mothers. However, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is falling under scrutiny as not following these priorities. Click on the link for more of the story.

For Some Refugees, Safe Haven Now Depends on a DNA Test

October 19, 2015

Many seek refugee status and asylum relief in the United States, but it is no easy feat for these to be granted. A mother, father, and daughter were granted refugee status, but are still waiting for the arrival of three other children who are still stranded in Ethiopia. However, to the family’s dismay, only two of the three stranded children have been granted refugee status and to be reunited with their family. One of their children is actually a niece, who the family unofficially adopted. In 1999, immigration officials no longer granted access to extended family in efforts to curb fraudulent applications. Hence, for those seeking family reunification, immigration policy presents another obstacle to overcome: a DNA test. Click on the link for the full news story.

Why Immigration is Different For Pope Francis

September 23, 2015

Being an immigrant himself, the Argentinian Pope has a different stance on immigration, offering a more pastoral approach than a political one. He emphasizes that there is a pastoral mission to serve immigrants and makes the following statement: “Perhaps it will not be easy for you to look into their soul; perhaps you will be challenged by their diversity. But know that they also possess resources meant to be shared,” he said. “So do not be afraid to welcome them. Offer them the warmth of the love of Christ and you will unlock the mystery of their heart. I am certain that, as so often in the past, these people will enrich America and its Church.” Click on the link for more information regarding the Pope’s stance on immigration.

The NC Council of Churches offers Clergy Series on Immigration

Fall 2015

“The NC Council of Churches is hitting the road this fall to continue its successful statewide clergy series on immigration. These events are geared toward busy religious professionals and faith leaders, and they provide an overview of immigration issues in the context of a great networking event (and free meal). This series revolves around sharing a meal together and hearing from knowledgeable people who are directly affected by immigration issues in their ministries. It’s a forum for honest questions and positive conversation among local colleagues, and everyone will walk away with additional resources and contacts,” stated by Jennie Belle, MDiv/MSW; Program Associate for Farmworker & Immigrant Rights. For more information, please visit their website http://www.welcometheimmigrant.org/events/

MEDIA RELEASE: Tuition equity for undocumented students furthers education and boosts economy

June 20, 2014

Between punishment and discipline: comparing strategies to control unauthorized immigration in the United States

May 10, 2014

This article discusses the rise of discourse relating to immigration into the United States. More specifically, this text addresses the discourse of the “immigrant threat” that depicts all immigrants as an “existential threat to the country.” There are political debates between and within politicians over immigration reform legislation where politicians, ranging from conservative Republicans to liberal Democrats, admittedly agree with the assumptions of the “immigrant threat” discourse. Consequently, outlined in this text are varying methods of immigrant management.