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March 28,
2006
Contact:
Tatiana Guerra
202-434-8070
NHCSL President
Assemblyman Felix Ortiz Responds to Recent
Immigration Rallies
Washington, DC – The National Hispanic Caucus of
State Legislators (NHCSL) president Assemblyman
Felix Ortiz (NY) shares his perspective from his
participation at the recent immigration rallies
in Chicago, Los Angeles and Phoenix with other
fellow legislators. The following are the
comments of Assemblyman Ortiz:
“My participation in the recent immigration
rallies in Chicago, Los Angeles and Phoenix made
it clear not only to me, but to the rest of the
nation that Hispanic people can have an impact
on the political process.
By organizing and presenting a united front,
these rallies spoke with one voice and compelled
Washington to respond to legitimate concerns.
Recently, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee
agreed to amend the Border Protection,
Anti-Terrorism and Illegal Immigration Control
Act of 2005 (HR-4437), in ways that would
establish a guest worker program and provide a
greater chance for immigrants to become U.S.
citizens.
While this is a good first step, more has to be
done to enlighten our federal representatives
about the contributions all immigrants from
diverse backgrounds make every day to this
country. Furthermore, we must recognize that the
plight of immigrants is just as important to the
present and future greatness of this country, as
it was for the immigrants who came before us.
We as Americans deserve to be heard not only for
our benefit, but to ensure that the legacy of
this nation’s democracy continues to be known
for its openness, freedom and responsiveness.”
# # #
The National Hispanic Caucus of State
Legislators (NHCSL) is a nonpartisan
organization representing the interests of
Hispanic state legislators from all states,
commonwealths, and territories of the United
States. NHCSL is a catalyst for joint action on
issues of common concern to all segments of the
Hispanic community. For more information visit
www.nhcsl.com.
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