As a faith leader in Dane County, I work with U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, and Ron Johnson, R-Oshkosh to fund the path to citizenship for essential workers, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. I say for Deferred action for early childhood arrival and temporary protected status recipients.
My faith calls on me to care for the immigrant and the stranger, documented and undocumented alike. I lead a congregation committed to justice and the belief that all people should have the opportunity to live in safety and pursue the American dream.
The majority of undocumented people living in Wisconsin positively impact our communities through hard work, cultural diversity, and low crime rates. We depend on their work, which has sustained us through the worst of the pandemic. They often pay taxes but receive no federal or state benefits.
My own ancestors fled persecution and settled in this country. They raised families that helped make this country great. We must urge our elected officials to live up to the values they believe in and return our country to a place of honor among nations.
Rabbi Betsy LB Forester, Madison
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