In our 3rd annual collaboration with FWD.us and its, I Stand With Immigrants (ISWI) Day of Action campaign, Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., continues to stand in solidarity with over 170 U.S. colleges and universities in 36 states, including D.C., to advocate for immigrants. As we observe this day, we encourage all of our stakeholders to take action in support of immigrant workers, colleagues, constituents, neighbors, and friends who impact our lives each day. In doing so, let us not forget the immense contributions that immigrants have made to make the U.S. and our American communities stronger.
While migration from one nation to another is not a recent occurrence, this issue has experienced increased attention due to the development of new immigration laws and policies (Migration Policy Center, 2017a); the rise of anti-immigrant views (APA, 2012; Torres Fernandez, Pereira, Aicart & Salas, 2017); and the humanitarian crisis unfolding linked to thousands of immigrants who are escaping their countries in search of a healthier life (Pew Research Center, 2016a). In addition, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (2013), despite the economic and financial crisis, global migration continues to rise with some 232 million international migrants living in the world today. Thus, the immigrant people in the United States is projected at approximately 46.6 million, the largest in the world (Pew Research Center, 2016b). There is a myriad of reasons why millions of individuals make the decision to leave their country and families behind; some migrations are planned, and these individuals leave their countries seeking better jobs and economic opportunities (APA, 2012). However, for some, the decision to migrate is precipitated by ongoing violence, war, poverty, and limited opportunities for advancement (Torres Fernandez, Pereira, Aicart, & Salas, 2017; Asakura & Torres Falcón, 2013; Pew Research Center, 2016a). Regardless of the reasons to migrate, the immigration process impacts these individuals at social, cultural, financial, political, and psychological levels (Alvarado, 2008; Casas, 2014; Vilar Peyrí & Eibenschutz Hartman, 2007).
As the Leaders of the Latino Greek Movement, Lambda recognizes the deeply embedded migration trails of our ancestors who have bravely come to the U.S. in search for prosperity, safety, opportunity, and holistic well-being. While all of the above-mentioned migration factors should be accessible to all immigrants in their country of origin, we know that this ideal is not always attainable. Thus, many have preconceived notions towards this group which continues to plague immigrants today. Often denoted as criminals or invaders, immigrants are actually dignified human beings who deserve a healthy and secure nexus to humanity; they are our neighbors and we stand with them to validate their search for healing. As a country that was historically defined as a “Nation of Immigrants,” and for decades implored the world to bring us its “tired and poor,” the American worldviews have now shifted by its most recent crimes being committed against immigrants; most recent, (1) immigrant children are being forced to sign away their rights with no legal or parental supervision; (2) border patrol agents have been accused and found guilty of committing rape and murder against immigrants and (3) ICE agents/police sheriffs have shut down neighborhoods to unconstitutionally profile and deport people of color (see Arpaio and North Carolina). Lastly, service members of the U.S. armed forces, who fought bravely overseas and risked their lives for this country, have also been deported. As these crimes against immigrants continue to occur, Lambda Theta Phi will not tolerate this inhumane treatment towards immigrants. We will not fall silent! We will always stand with immigrants because migration is a human right! We ask that you stand in solidarity with us, share your story and continue the fight towards immigration reform.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding social justice issues affecting our fraternity, please do not hesitate to contact the National Director of Social Justice Initiatives Steve R. Pereira, , at your earliest convenience.