WHEREAS:

            The United States is a nation of immigrants, and throughout its history immigrants have played an important role in building this nation and its democratic ideals; and

WHEREAS:

            New arrivals from every continent have contributed their energy and vitality to making the United States richer and stronger; and

WHEREAS:

            Current anti-immigrant sentiments have led some Americans to believe that immigrants in general compete with Americans for jobs and public services and believe that immigrants are the cause for the economic and social problems and government budgetary shortfalls; and

WHEREAS:

            Some politicians have irresponsibly proposed schemes to charge border tolls, put the National Guard at the borders, refuse citizenship and social benefits to children of undocumented immigrants, impose a moratorium on immigration, etc. which only serve to fuel and encourage anti-immigrant backlash; and

WHEREAS:

            Legislation is pending which would undermine the due process rights of political asylum seekers; and

WHEREAS:

            There is exploitation and abuse of immigrant workers in the workplace, particularly in the growing number of sweatshops designed to take advantage of immigrant workers.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

            That the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO oppose all administrative, legislative and political attempts to undermine the established rights of immigrants and refugees; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

            That AFSCME fight the current attacks on immigrant workers and encourage all locals to educate their members about the value of labor solidarity regardless of racial, national origin or immigrant status; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

            That AFSCME actively work to provide information to its locals regarding anti-immigrant policies and legislation and urge the entire labor movement to press for the defeat of such legislation; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

            That AFSCME reach out to other AFL-CIO unions and support groups and seek formal input to the AFL-CIO Executive Council Ad Hoc Committee on Immigration.

SUBMITTED BY:

Herman Gilman, President and Delegate
Peggy Lytle, Recording Secretary
AFSCME Local 304, Council 28
Washington