c. 2007 Religion News Service
WASHINGTON _ Leaders from both sides of the political aisle thanked Hispanic evangelicals Friday (June 15) for their push for comprehensive immigration reform and urged their continued support as the Congress reopens debate on the controversial issue.
“I thank you for making comprehensive immigration reform your top priority,” President Bush said at the annual National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast, a gathering of politicians with mostly evangelical Protestant leaders. “I share that priority.”
The president drew applause from the crowd of about 700 when he urged Congress to pass a bill “I can sign this year.” Congressional leaders announced Thursday that immigration reform had been revived in the Senate. The plan includes increased border enforcement, steps for immigrants to earn citizenship and a proposed program to allow some temporary workers to come to America legally.
“We must meet our moral obligation to treat newcomers with decency and show compassion to the vulnerable and exploited, because we’re called to answer both the demands of justice and the call for mercy,” Bush said.
The breakfast was sponsored by Esperanza, an Hispanic faith-based organization that works with churches and ministries on advocacy and community development. The breakfast was part of a three-day conference that included visits to Capitol Hill.
Sen. Ted Kennedy, D-Mass., told the Hispanic religious leaders that their role in passage of reform was important.
“This is in our national interest,” he said. “And failure is not an option, and to have your support is absolutely crucial, and to have your prayers is absolutely essential.”
Kennedy was presented at the breakfast with the Esperanza Leadership Award for his work on immigration.
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., noted that people may be struck that Bush and Kennedy _ unlikely political allies _ have found common ground on immigration reform.
“What is more important is where they are together,” she said, drawing applause. “I thank you for helping to lead the way to that common ground. It is often higher ground, if we only seek it together.”
Clinton said family reunification has been her focus in the debate on immigration. “Our family values have to be reflected in our immigration system,” she said.
Democratic Party Chairman Howard Dean also commended the Hispanic faith leaders for their understanding and efforts related to possible reforms.
“You’re often the only ones who see the consequences of a severely flawed immigration system,” he said. “I commend the clergy and Americans of all faiths who … (are) speaking out on immigration reform.”
The Rev. Luis Cortes Jr., president of the Philadelphia-based Esperanza, called on those attending the breakfast to pick up their phones and keep pushing for reform.
“Please call your congressman, your congresswoman, your senator,” he urged. “And remind them to show the values that we hold: values to do for the powerless and not for the powerful.”
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