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Lansing Adds Its Voice to Immigration Reform Debate

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Immigrant families in mid-Michigan are supporting a new national campaign pushing for comprehensive immigration reform.

The campaign includes a reform provision that would allow deported immigrants to be reunited with their families in the U.S.  Advocates say that’s a key part of creating a path to citizenship.  Maximo Anguiano with Action of Greater Lansing says it’s time to bring the undocumented into American society.

“Our immigrants are already here," Anguiano says.  "We’re spending millions of dollars on deporting them, on incarcerating them, on arresting them.  Why not let them just come into the community and be able to contribute fully to this nation?

Last August, the Obama administration launched a program to allow undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. before their 16th birthday to apply for temporary work visas.  Local advocates say that’s part of a more complex issue that requires broader reform.

Kevin Lavery served as a general assignment reporter and occasional local host for Morning Edition and All Things Considered before retiring in 2023.
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