Dear Friend,
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I am sure many of you are making menu and travel plans and looking forward to gathering with family and friends to give thanks and revel in the precious joy of being together. Among the things we are thankful for, safety, security, warmth, food on the table, and loved ones to share in this abundance all rank high on our lists.
But in many parts of the world, and even here at home, simple freedoms and the blessings of security, safety, lack of hunger, and being with loved ones are a distant dream for too many.
Lack of economic opportunity, unthinkable violence, oppression, and even threat of imminent death force many individuals and families to make the difficult decision to leave their countries of origin to seek refuge and asylum in the United States. New Jersey, with its long history of welcoming those in need, leads the nation in percentage of people of immigrant heritage.
UU FaithAction NJ, through the work of its Immigration Justice Task Force, has sought to educate the public on immigration issues and advocate for legislation that accounts for the dignity and civil rights of immigrants.
Current priorities include:
- Work with coalition partners to pass the Values Act—The Values Act would codify into statutory form the Immigrant Trust Directive, which stipulates that state and local law enforcement do not have to use their resources to assist Federal Immigration Agencies.
- Build upon the victory earlier this year that allows immigrants to apply for and receive driver’s licenses by encouraging and assisting individuals to do so
- Assist coalition partners in their efforts help resettle Syrian, Afghan, Haitian and other refugees by organizing congregational support and educating the public on support opportunities
- Help those in detention to access legal support to improve outcomes and keep families intact
This #GivingTuesday, please consider a gift to UU FaithAction NJ, so that we might continue to promote legislation that affirms the dignity and worth of every person, native born and immigrant alike, and provides a safe haven to build a life here in New Jersey. A life free from oppression, violence, fear for safety and separation. A life that welcomes everyone to the table of abundance we are all so grateful for this season.
Remember, all gifts up to our $2,500 goal will be matched 2 to 1, tripling your generosity.
In faith, with love, and for justice,
Charles Loflin
Executive Director