My name is Tim Burke. I’m a lead water distribution operator, and I’ve worked for the City of Hemet in California for the past 18 years. I’m also a member of SEIU Local 721, serving on its executive board and as an active member of the SEIU Conservative Member Engagement Committee.
My great grandfather immigrated to this country from Lithuania in 1896 seeking to build a better life for his family. Back then he was able to get off the boat and get to work. A few years later he became a naturalized citizen.
Today, men and women coming to the United States are escaping violence and poverty and just searching for a better future for their children. They should have the same opportunity to participate in our communities and our economy as my great grandfather did. America is a place where immigrants should be welcomed and feel safe and free.
I may be a Republican but I don’t always agree with this administration and its sometimes divisive politics. For me, it’s not about the party, it’s about the policies. At the end of the day, our next president must make it easier, not harder, for people to live good quality lives.
President Trump oftentimes allows fear and hate to spread around the immigration issue. He doesn’t seem to view immigrants for who they are—people who contribute to our economy and continue to enrich our diverse culture. That’s why I continue to lobby for immigration reform.
I recently participated in the Unions For All Summit, even asking Senator Elizabeth Warren a question on stage, because I know that when people come together in unions and have a voice at work, they lift each other up—no matter where they come from or what they look like.
