CAPAC Members Commemorate International Migrants Day
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today marks International Migrants Day, which honors the important contributions of migrants while recognizing the challenges they continue to face. In the United States, approximately two-thirds of Asian Americans and one-sixth of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders are foreign-born.
In recognition of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) immigrant communities, CAPAC Members released the following statements:
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):
“On this International Migrants Day, we honor immigrants’ hope, resilience, and the essential role they continue to play in shaping and strengthening our nation. AANHPI immigrants and their families enrich our nation in countless ways - starting small businesses, driving scientific innovation, enhancing the diversity of our society, and so much more. Yet, despite their contributions, many immigrant communities still face rising xenophobic and discriminatory rhetoric, as well as significant economic, legal, and social barriers to both entering and staying in this country. I will continue to fight for families to be reunited without fear and for migrants to have the chance to build a better future. We must reaffirm our commitment to fighting any xenophobic measures from any members of Congress or future presidents and protecting the dignity and rights of all immigrants who call this nation home.”
CAPAC Second Vice-Chair Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39):
“On International Migrants Day, we honor the diverse contributions of migrants worldwide and advocate for their rights and dignity. My story would not have been possible without the bravery of my grandparents immigrating to this country. My grandparents—like all migrants—enriched the community they were in, even in the face of challenges and prejudice. Today, we honor all migrants, their journey, and their contributions to our nation.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07):
“International Migrants Day is a time to reflect upon the countless incredible contributions that immigrants have made to communities across America. As we do that, we must also continue working toward our mission of creating a more humane, compassionate, and functioning immigration system that is rooted in justice and truly works for everyone. As a proud immigrant and one of just eighteen naturalized citizens currently serving in Congress, someone who has spent decades organizing for immigrants’ rights, and now Ranking Member of the Immigration Subcommittee, I know how important it is that we reform our immigration system to prioritize fairness and a roadmap to citizenship. We must welcome those fleeing war, political instability, and economic devastation as they seek better lives for themselves and their families, not turn them away. Immigrants make our country better, and it’s time for our laws to reflect that.”
Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):
“International Migrants Day is an opportunity to celebrate the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants have made to the US. It is a chance to celebrate our nation’s rich history as well as reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every immigrant and refugee is treated with humanity, dignity, and respect.”
Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13):
“This International Migrants Day is an opportunity to reflect on and recognize the many contributions of migrants throughout our nation's history. As an immigrant who came to this country in 1979 with nothing but a suitcase and $20 in my pocket, I know first-hand the challenges many immigrants face when first coming to America. With the incoming presidential administration's constant demonization of the immigrant community, we must recommit to protecting immigrants and their families.”
Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08):
“International Migrants Day is an opportunity for us to recognize the invaluable contributions of migrants to our nation’s history and identity. As we celebrate this day, we must also recommit ourselves to protecting migrant communities at home and abroad, ensuring their dignity and providing them with opportunities to succeed. As the grandson of immigrants, and proud representative of a district that is home to hundreds of thousands of foreign-born individuals, I know firsthand that this is an effort worth fighting for.”
Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15):
“This International Migrants Day, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of immigrants to our nation’s strength and diversity. At a time when hostility and bigotry are being directed at migrants, today reminds us of the importance of welcoming all those who seek a better future with respect, compassion, and dignity. I join my CAPAC colleagues in advocating for every person, regardless of their background, to be treated with fairness and given the opportunity to contribute to the American dream.”