Equality in our immigration laws: reuniting all families

By

Ana G. White

Immigration and Refugee Policy Analyst

The Episcopal Church

Office of Government Relations

Family unity has been a central piece of our immigration system for more than 40 years. This is based on the idea that families, as the core of our society, should have the possibility of reunification in the migration context. Reunification for many families is a lengthy, complicated and burdensome process. For LGBT families this process is not even an option. The reality of the obstacles facing these families is sobering. Current immigration laws do not provide any avenues for LGBT couples in bi-national relationships to cosponsor their partners. In our fight for an immigration system that is fair and just, equality cannot be ignored. As a matter of our faith and moral values, how we can advocate for some families and leave others behind?

In 2006, the Episcopal Church, through its policy - “The Alien Among You” – expressed support for an immigration system that allows close family members to reunite, without undue delay. Last year, the Church passed a resolution in General Convention in support of immigration equality for same-sex couples. The resolution (Resolution D076- 2009) urges Congress to ensure fairness in immigration and specifically provide immigration equality for same-sex couples by permitting a citizen or permanent resident alien to sponsor an immigrant partner for permanent residence in the United States. Past congress introduced legislation that would address this issue, the Uniting American Families Act. We are hope that this legislation will be introduced by this new Congress.

The route to immigration reform is not an easy one. Divisiveness and extreme positions are hurdles that we will have to overcome. Many have argued that adding LGBT families to the mix is the wrong strategy and would divide the faith coalition that supports immigration reform. How can we compromise what is the right thing to do? Again, we are committed to policies that treat ALL with dignity. We call for a just world for ALL people and will continue to work for an immigration system that treats ALL families with respect.



Ana G. White
Immigration and Refugee Policy Analyst
The Episcopal Church
Office of Government Relations
110 Maryland Avenue, NE #309
Washington, DC 20002
202-547-6382 (office - direct line)
Fax 202-547-4457