Issued August 27, 2024
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rocio Sáenz, Secretary-Treasurer of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), issued the following statement in response to the news that a federal judge paused the Biden Administration's program extending protections to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens:
“This decision is a direct attack on American families, denying much-needed relief to long-time resident spouses and step-children of U.S. citizens. Every day this sensible program is paused is a day that partners, husbands, wives, mothers, and fathers are forced to live in constant fear of being torn away from their families.“
“It benefits everyone when immigrant families, like all working people, are welcomed, safe, and free in America. Immigrants, including undocumented workers, play crucial roles as essential workers. They contribute to the tax base, bolster Social Security, and drive billions of dollars of economic growth annually. Their dedication creates new jobs, including opportunities for US citizens, and fosters the growth of small businesses, ultimately helping communities to prosper.”
"We, as workers and voters, all share a common vision: to ensure safety, security, and opportunity for our families, as well as a promising future for our children. At SEIU, a union of two million members, we are actively rallying support for candidates who champion a humane and efficient immigration policy that includes a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who contribute to our society, including dreamers and individuals from countries where it's unsafe to return under Temporary Protected Status (TPS). A humane immigration policy must also prioritize providing the necessary resources for the swift and complete integration of newcomers, and empower immigrant workers to organize and have a voice through unions. By uniting in this cause, we can bring about meaningful change together."