Dear Editor,
I’m writing because the Faith and Justice Symposium that focused on Immigration and Refugees has come to end. Now the question is how can we continue to talk about these issues on campus and in the community? The answer is simple. We can visit, write a letter, or make a call to our congressional representatives. These are only a few ways college student and community members can be involved and contributing to the issue.The issue of immigration is close to my heart because I come from an immigrant background. Both my parents are immigrants from Mexico. They came to the United States in the early 90’s seeking a better life for their children because of their decision to immigrate I was fortunate enough to be born in this country. Being born in this country has enabled me to pursue my dreams and goals.
Immigration is an issue that affects every community in the United States. There are currently 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States. During the symposium we learned that “Immigrants are a blessing not a burden.” I am currently an advocacy corps member with Friends Committee on National Legislation working on lobbying our representatives and organizing around Western New York.
As Houghton students and community members we have to urge for our representatives in congress to commit to working on bipartisan comprehensive immigration in the next congressional session. Please urge 23rd District Rep. Tom Reed to support this kind of legislation.
Sergio Mata ‘19
