“President Donald J. Trump’s recent executive order on immigration is alarming and completely disheartening. As former President Bill Clinton said, “We are still a nation of immigrants; we should be proud of it… but we are also a nation of laws.” Our nation was built on a foundation of liberty and respect for all. The president’s actions do not respect us as an American people, nor do they respect the Constitution. These anti-immigration policies were enacted swiftly and without regard for the people whose lives will be impacted.
“I am saddened by the implications of this order and its rash implementation. Our government may have a duty to protect us from foreign and domestic threats, but we cannot allow that to be used as justification for discrimination and intolerance.
“The executive order puts a number of things into question: whether those who have legal visas will be able to travel to their jobs and homes, the future of those with legal permanent residence, and the violence and persecution these individuals may face upon return to their home country. One thing that is entirely clear, however, is that this executive order will target some of the most vulnerable among us.
“I want you to know that I strongly oppose the president’s action last weekend. I have joined with my colleagues and signed on as a co-sponsor to Rep. Jeremy Moss’ House Resolution 14 that denounces anti-refugee policies, and Rep. Abdullah Hammoud’s recently introduced resolution that opposed discriminatory policies and promotes humane and responsible action on immigration. I encourage you to continue to stand together with our immigrant neighbors, friends and family members.”