The Leadership Conference is working diligently to see that Tom Perez is confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Labor. Perez is an eminently qualified public servant and consensus builder who has dedicated his career to ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and have the opportunity to succeed. He has served with integrity and distinction at the local, state and national level, compiling an outstanding record of achievement. Press Release - The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Civil and Human Rights Coalition Applauds President’s Executive Order Providing Opportunities for DREAMers
For Immediate Release
Contact: Scott Westbrook Simpson, 202.466.2061, simpson@civilrights.org
June 15, 2012
Wade Henderson, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s announcement of an executive order to halt deportation of DREAMers and allow them to apply for work permits:
“Today is a good day for America. We applaud President Obama for his courageous and uplifting decision to enable these deserving youths to move from the shadows into the sunlight of our society.
The hundreds of thousands of young people this will impact grew up as Americans, but lack legal status. If not for the tireless work of many of the DREAMers themselves who spoke out in the face of possible deportation, this day would not be possible. They built their own movement from within and embodied the courage and determination that best exemplifies core American values.
With state anti-immigrant laws, a struggling economy, and opportunistic politicians looking for scapegoats, it’s increasingly difficult to be an immigrant in the United States. But today’s executive order provides needed relief to many and should be considered a call for Congress to take action on the DREAM Act and comprehensive immigration reform.
Today’s executive order honors the dignity of working people, exemplifies core American values, and ensures the security and prosperity of our nation. It is a sensible approach to reforming our nation’s immigration system.
We thank President Obama for his bold leadership toward building an America that’s as good as its ideals.”
Wade Henderson is the president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Conference works toward an America as good as its ideals. For more information on The Leadership Conference and its 200-plus member organizations, visit www.civilrights.org.
