U.S. Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Los Angeles) hosted an immigration roundtable discussion at the Alma Family and Youth Services Center to address issues facing immigrant communities in Los Angeles and across the country.

Gomez

From local officials representing Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to national faith and advocacy groups, Gomez convened a diverse group of stakeholders to examine immigration topics, including the Trump administration’s policies on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, Temporary Protected Status, the status of families separated at the southern border, and the ongoing negotiations on government funding for border security.

“I deeply appreciate the commitment and support of those who joined us for today’s immigration roundtable,” Gomez said. “In the wake of President Trump’s ongoing attacks on immigrant communities – and the historic government shutdown that ensued as a result – it was vital to bring these groups together at a forum where we can chart a course forward in our fight for humane immigration policies rooted in our shared values: justice, tolerance, and compassion. The ideas presented by leaders at today’s roundtable sends a clear message to the White House that our city will continue to recognize the dignity of immigrants and live up to the principles that have defined our country for generations.”

“CHIRLA appreciates the opportunity to engage with Congressman Jimmy Gomez to discuss our legislative priorities, such as passing a DREAM/TPS bill that would provide a permanent solution for those in limbo,” said Isabel J. Sanchez, National Policy Advocate for Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, one of the organizations that participated. “Through his role on committee, our expectation is that he can bring forth our immigrant community’s concerns and that he be able to increase accountability on the Department of Homeland Security, specifically the policies and the practices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Customs and Border Patrol, and of other departments that carry out enforcement tactics that hurt our immigrant communities. We look forward to future dialogues with the congressman.”

“Immigrants are a vibrant and essential part of our community, and Rep. Gomez’s roundtable is an important opportunity for us to acknowledge and celebrate the meaningful roles they inhabit in our society,” said Eli Veitzer, president and CEO of Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles, another organization that participated. “Working together, we can protect immigrants of all ages – from children at the border to seniors long-settled here – and ensure that all residents of California are valued, protected and receive the services they need.”