It's a hot button issue that can divide people. But this week it's going to bring many together on Capitol Hill. Tomorrow, Congressman Luis Gutierrez of Illinois is supposed to outline the key points of his new immigration reform bill. Some advocacy groups, who are going to DC to listen to his announcement, stopped by the east to discuss the change they hope to see with local leaders.
From Miami, Florida to Greenville, North Carolina, they say it's time for change.
Local leaders including representatives from city government, the NAACP and Pitt County Coalition Against Racism said they support their cause.
"Let’s join for what is right, lets for justice, go reforming immigration!"
Florida Immigration Reform Leader, Yamile Jimenez Soto, says the change needs to help all immigrants who contribute to America’s bottom line.
"It would be fair if they say if you don't pay your taxes, you don't remain in a good moral standing and you're not even willing to speak English in this country. It is fair for them to say we want you out of here because you are being a burden to this country," Jimenez Soto said.
But as for those who aren't a burden, the advocates stress they should get help to earn their citizenship and fight for equal rights.
"I think the biggest risk we run is we allow unscrupulous employers to take advantage of a segment of our population that will not demand equal rights that will not help anyone. We have to recognize that and we have to provide a way thru which these people can come out of the shadows and fully integrate in our society," Ruben Campillo, Reform Immigration for America State Director, said.
Another issue advocates say they want addressed in legislation is deportation. They want to see families stay together. To learn a little bit more about the cause for immigration reform, just type in the keyword: IMMIGRATION.
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