Congress at an impasse, communities not

As Congress remains at an impasse on immigration, the lives of millions of Americans hang in the balance, and the very idea of America as an immigrant nation is being challenged at the highest levels. While Congress yet again failed to protect DACA this week, the number of communities large and small, rural and urban, that are doubling down on inclusion is growing. And so are the benefits they are reaping.

Take the case of the bellwether state of Ohio, where, as I wrote in an op-ed published this week, every one of the state’s six major cities has a proactive agenda when it comes to immigration, inclusion and building greater social cohesion. And they are realizing the economic benefits.

Or, look to the broad coalition of residents, local government, business and philanthropy that earlier this month, launched Welcoming San Diego with a clear message about the benefits of immigration, as reported by the LA Times.

Add to that the momentum of pragmatic leaders in more than 200 places, home to one in eight Americans, who are creating safe and prosperous communities where neighbors work together to solve problems.

We hope you and your community will join us in adding to and lifting up the stories of forward-thinking local leaders who are standing in support of immigrants and and working together to build a more inclusive future for all of us.