Immigration Reform: The Call To Act Now

The last presidential elections drew an historic turnout not seen in 40 years.  New census data reveals that, compared to 2004, the 2008 elections also saw a significant increase in the number of Hispanic, Asian and African Americans exercising their right to vote.  The rate of increase in turnout among Asian American voters is over 20%, next only to Latinos.  Releasing this data, the Immigration Policy Center also points out that politicians who ignore this “demographic wake-up call” will pay a price at the polls.

Immigration reform is an important issue for Latinos and Asians, given that the majority of these groups are immigrants or children of immigrants.  The call for Latinos and Asians to manifest their clout in this issue need not wait ‘til the next elections.

• The Reform Immigration For America campaign is a coalition of various advocacy groups that is leading the call to action now.  Visit their site to send a fax your congress leader or to enlist your organization in the coalition: www.reformimmigrationforamerica.org

Many Asian and Pacific Islander communities have already joined the ranks in their support of this.  In fact, this week marks the first-ever National Asian American Week of Action for comprehensive immigration reform.  In a national display of unity and coordination, activists across the nation will hold press events, and attend town hall meetings with U.S. lawmakers to push for a comprehensive immigration reform.

• The Asian Pacific Americans for Progress is one of many championing this cause with a list of activities that extend through fall.  Today is National Text-in day.  Visit their site to learn more: http://www.apaforprogress.org/aapis-call-immigration-reform