public policy advocacy

Immigration Statement

Introduction
Given that in the first part of 2006 several bills addressing immigration reform were introduced in Congress and President Bush was giving the issue attention as well, the Board of Directors decided that immigration should become a priority issue for YWCA Clark County. Because of the importance of this issue to the nation in general and to many of our organization's clients, the Board adopted its public policy statement on immigration, which took into account the following considerations:

• Regardless of one's political views, it is universally agreed that some measure of immigration reform is necessary.
• Some suggestions on immigration reform could, if adopted, affect the ability of YWCA Clark County to effectively and legally serve immigrant women and children in need.
• The YWCA believes that it can take a position on immigration without signaling support for specific immigration reforms such as deportation, work visas, penalties or amnesty, for instance.
• The YWCA's primary objective is to convey that our organization supports dignity, due process and basic human rights for all people, especially those who are the most vulnerable.
• The YWCA believes that its statement on immigration policy is perfectly aligned with its mission to eliminate racism and oppression, to empower women and to help build a community of peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.

Public Policy Statement
YWCA Clark County encourages lawmakers to replace the current patchwork of immigration laws and procedures with a fair, equitable, and comprehensive national plan. YWCA Clark County opposes any bill that would criminalize the services our association provides to immigrants.