America’s Voice Founder and Executive Director Frank Sharry was one of 200 individuals arrested today as part of an immigration-related civil disobedience at the U.S. Capitol. The arrests, which followed a major rally on the National Mall and march to the Capitol featuring tens of thousands of participants, included Members of Congress and leaders from immigration, labor, civil rights and faith communities. The acts of civil disobedience underscore the urgent need for House Republican leadership to deliver a vote and pass fair immigration reform this year.
The following is a statement from Frank Sharry:
I am honored and humbled to be part of today’s act of civil disobedience.
There are 11 million reasons why I’ve decided to get arrested today.
In today’s America 11 million people work hard, sacrifice for their families and make this country stronger, but are denied the opportunity to live freely and contribute fully.
In today’s America 11 million people live in families that are routinely ripped apart by quota-driven deportations despite the fact that most would have a chance to earn citizenship under pending legislation.
In today’s America 11 million people who are Americans in all but paperwork want only what immigrants to our country have always wanted: the dignity and respect that comes with recognition and citizenship.
We will keep turning up the heat until our lawmakers see the light.