Issued September 06, 2014
Contact: Beatriz Lopez, beatriz.lopez@seiu.org, 202-412-7396
Sahar Wali, sahar.wali@seiu.org
WASHINGTON, DC - After President Obama announced his decision to delay executive action on immigration, the Service Employees International Union's (SEIU) President, Mary Kay Henry, and Executive Vice President, Rocio Saenz, issued the following joint statement:
America is a nation founded on the dreams of immigrants. Today, we are deeply disheartened that the dreams of hard-working immigrant families who have long contributed to the fabric of the American life remain in jeopardy. The White House's decision to delay executive action forces countless families to continue to wait in the shadows of fear.
"We are deeply disappointed but not paralyzed.
"By far, this isn't the end game. Immigration reform has and always will be our future. While the president will continue to hear from us, Congress will feel the pressure of a growing electorate.
"We haven't forgotten how we first got here. Republicans failed the American people by refusing to vote on meaningful immigration reform. Holding them accountable in November is a promise that we intend to keep.
"We know that whatever administrative action the president takes in the future will only be temporary. Whether it's at the polls or on the streets, we'll make sure immigration reform becomes a reality.
"The factor of change is us--the Latino, immigrant, African American and immigration reform voter. And we refuse to become victims of 'wait' and the status quo."
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