November 6, 2013

Recently, MPAC joined the Arab American Institute in holding “The Road to Immigration Reform,” a community forum focusing on the political and social impact of immigration reform. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), White House Deputy Policy Director for Immigration Tyler Moran and immigration attorney Kamal Essaheb spoke about different aspects of this critical issue.

Held at the Muslim Community Center in Silver Spring, MD, the event started with Van Hollen talking about the Senate bill and what he predicted would happen when the bill hits the House of Representatives’ floor.

Moran reassured the audience of the White House’s efforts in working for immigration reform, and he touched upon policy issues that could affect American Muslims, such as the Graham amendment which could allow racial profiling. Finally, Essaheb gave his personal perspective of the current state of the nation’s immigration system and how it has affected him and his family.

MPAC held the panel as part of its broader immigration campaign. Along with community forums, MPAC released a policy paper, “Realizing a Comprehensive Immigration Reform,” and community toolkit on immigration and will be holding national conference calls to encourage American Muslims to make their voices for immigration reform heard to their elected officials.

The immigration paper gives the background of why our immigration system needs fixing, a summary of the consequences of doing nothing, and the probable results of passing comprehensive legislation. MPAC’s paper serves as a guide for both those new to the topic and those with a firm understanding of it.

The community action toolkit is a guide for the American Muslim community on how to get involved in the process. Suggestions include how to engage media, utilize social media, and contact your local member of Congress.