FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 12, 2025
Contact: Kaitlin Hooker
Ansari Introduces First Legislation
Ansari Resolution Celebrates the Legacy and Contributions of Immigrants and Opposes Discriminatory Immigration Policies
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) introduced a House resolution titled “Celebrating the Legacy and Contributions of Immigrants and Opposing Discriminatory Immigration Policies.” Ansari’s newly introduced legislation stands in direct opposition to the harmful Executive Orders and policies of the Trump administration that seek to attack lawful asylum claims, impose arbitrary restrictions, including national origin bans, and unjustly target immigrant communities.
The resolution is cosponsored by over a dozen members, including Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Jim Costa (CA-21), André Carson (IN-07), Troy A. Carter (LA-02), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Gwen Moore (WI-04), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D.C.).
“Every day, immigrants work tirelessly—paying taxes, starting businesses, serving in our armed forces, and making us stronger as a nation. Here in Arizona’s Third District, their impact is felt deeply,” said Rep. Ansari. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce this resolution honoring the immense contributions of immigrants and standing firmly against President Trump’s un-American policies that seek to target and dehumanize them. In Congress, I will continue to push for meaningful immigration policies that reflect the values of our nation and the contributions of immigrants to this country.”
In Arizona and across the nation, President Trump’s restrictive immigration policies have disrupted vibrant communities and harmed local economies. Reports show that Trump’s ill-conceived policy of mass deportations and anti-immigrant measures drive up costs for all Americans, exacerbate labor shortages, and harm U.S. national security.
Prominent national and local Arizona organizations, including the Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project, Promise Arizona, Aliento Arizona, United We Dream, Church World Service, the Jewish Democratic Council of America, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, and Refugees International endorse the resolution.
Support for the legislation:
“Dreamers and immigrants are the reflection of what is possible when you work hard and practice hope every day. This resolution is a reminder of who we can be as Americans,” said Reyna E. Montoya, Founder and CEO of Aliento Arizona. “Now more than ever let’s not forget about the invaluable contributions of immigrants to our nation, let’s continue to build a nation where the land of the brave is not only a song we sing but a practice we live up daily.”
“We wholeheartedly endorse this effort, which aligns with our vision of a just and humane immigration system that respects the dignity and rights of all people,” said United We Dream. “At a time when immigrant communities continue to face unjust attacks and harmful policies, it is critical to uplift their invaluable contributions and advocate for policies that center humanity, justice, and opportunity. This resolution is a powerful statement in defense of immigrant rights.”
“Refugees International strongly supports this resolution, recognizing that immigrants and refugees are vital to the strength of our nation and affirming that they should be able to participate in American society without fear,” said Dr. Yael Schacher, Director for the Americas and Europe, Refugees International. “Amid rising global displacement, it is more critical than ever for the United States to reaffirm its longstanding commitment to providing refuge to people seeking safety.”
Text of Rep. Ansari’s Resolution Celebrating the Legacy of Immigrants and Opposing Discriminatory Immigration Policies is HERE and below.
RESOLUTION TEXT
Celebrating the legacy and contributions of immigrants and opposing discriminatory immigration policies.
Whereas the United States of America was founded by immigrants seeking freedom, security, and opportunity;
Whereas the United States is best when it serves as a haven for those seeking a better, more secure, more prosperous life;
Whereas President George Washington said, ‘‘[Let] the poor, the needy, and oppressed of the Earth, and those who want Land, resort to the fertile lands of our western country, the second land of Promise, and there dwell in peace, fulfilling the first and great commandment.’’;
Whereas President Ronald Reagan said, ‘‘Our nation is a nation of immigrants. More than any other country, our strength comes from our own immigrant heritage and our capacity to welcome those from other lands.’’;
Whereas President George W. Bush said, ‘‘It says something about our country that people around the world are willing to leave their homes and leave their families and risk everything to come to America. Their talent and hard work and love of freedom have helped make America the leader of the world.’’;
Whereas immigrants have enriched American society in countless ways, contributing to its economy, culture, arts, and sciences;
Whereas immigrants have served in the United States Armed Forces in disproportionate numbers, defending the Nation with bravery and distinction;
Whereas immigrants have played a vital role in the growth and prosperity of the American economy, filling critical labor shortages and starting businesses that create jobs and drive economic growth;
Whereas immigrants have strengthened United States communities, bringing diverse perspectives, skills, and talents that enrich the social fabric of the United States and make it a more vibrant and inclusive Nation;
Whereas discriminatory immigration policies, including family separation, arbitrary detention of asylum seekers, and the targeting of immigrants based on their race, religion, or national origin are contrary to the values of freedom, justice, and equality upon which the Nation was founded;
Whereas such anti-immigrant policies have a devastating impact on immigrant families and communities, causing trauma, fear, and economic hardship, as well as to the national economy;
Whereas arbitrary anti-immigrant travel bans fail the security and economic needs of the United States causing unnecessary harm and confusion; and
Whereas a welcoming and inclusive immigration system is essential for the continued prosperity and strength of the United States: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
(1) recognizes and celebrates the invaluable contributions of immigrants to the United States of America;
(2) condemns all forms of discrimination against immigrants, including racial profiling, religious discrimination, and the targeting of immigrants based on their national origin;
(3) urges the Administration to uphold the rights and dignity of all immigrants, including asylum seekers and refugees;
(4) calls for the implementation of humane immigration policies that prioritize family unity, protect human rights, and promote a pathway to citizenship for longtime residents; and
(5) supports comprehensive immigration reform that addresses the needs of the United States economy, strengthens its communities, and reflects the values of compassion, fairness, and opportunity for all.
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