Women’s immigrant advocates encouraged by commitment to comprehensive reform

Much work remains to ensure policies support women immigrants, their health and their families

Feb. 12, 2013, WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Coalition for the Immigrant Women’s Rights, which released a Statement of Principles on Women and Immigration Reform last month, issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s remarks on immigration policy reform during the State of the Union address:

“We’re encouraged by the President’s continued support for the comprehensive immigration policy reform our country desperately needs. Tonight the President, whose guests included members of our community fighting for reform, like a young activist, a Latino service member, an Asian American hero, a Filipino nurse and a naturalized citizen from Haiti, called for stronger families, stronger communities and a stronger America.

 

In order to reach that goal, it is imperative that policymakers recognize the contributions of women immigrants and address their unique needs. Women’s issues have been marginalized in discussions about immigration reform, creating concerns about whether their rights will be protected. Women immigrants work hard, pay taxes and contribute to the economy — they are the backbones of their families and communities. To reach that stronger America, immigration policy reform must take into account the negative impact current policies and practices have on women, families and communities.”

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The National Coalition for Immigrant Women’s Rights is the leading national collaboration to specifically focus on women and gender issues in the public discourse on immigration. The coalition represents more than 70 leading organizations with a presence nationally and in every state. For more information about the National Coalition for Immigrant Women’s Rights, please visit http://nciwr.wordpress.com.

The Women's Refugee Commission is on the steering committee of the National Coalition for Immigrant Women's Rights.