Clarke Renews Her Commitment Comprehensive Immigration Reform

(Washington D.C.) – Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke renewed her commitment for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) as thousands of U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and undocumented immigrants rallied on the National Mall calling on Congress to address CIR legislation this year.

“This rally is a clear demonstration that many people from around this nation want comprehensive immigration reform,” stated Rep. Clarke. “When we turn our back on those who come to these shores to become Americans, to be a part of building our great nation, and to embrace the American Dream, we are turning our back on ourselves. We must never forget that this debate is critical to improving the lives of all American citizens, American businesses, and the lives of those who seek to be Americans. Healthcare Reform today…Immigration Reform tomorrow.”

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke is an original co-sponsor of Rep. Luis V. Gutierrez’s immigration reform bill, H.R. 4321, CIR ASAP. She is diligently fighting to ensure that the CIR debate encompasses all those affected by our broken immigration system.

“As a second generation Jamaican American and Representative of a district with one of the largest concentrations of first and second generation immigrants, especially those from the Caribbean, my constituents and I stand strong with our Latino sisters and brothers as we fight for CIR. Our nation must understand that a broken immigration system does not only impact immigrants from Latin America, it impacts immigrants from around the globe.

“Therefore, as Congress continues the debate comprehensive immigration reform legislation, advocacy groups, religious leaders, individual stakeholders, and all levels of government must come together and push for comprehensive immigration reform. I am thankful for President Obama commitment to addressing our broken immigration system. I will continue to work to ensure that Congress does its part to move towards a comprehensive immigration reform legislative package,” concluded Rep. Clarke.

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