Reform immigration

Our country has a unique opportunity to take a big step toward strengthening our economy, uniting families and protecting the rights of all working people. The U.S. Senate just approved a bill that would create a common-sense process for many hardworking immigrants to become citizens. But immigration reform is not just about numbers; it’s about people’s lives.

I’ve lived in Spokane for 23 years. As a Service Employees International Union member in Washington, I have many family members and friends who are immigrants. I know that they are valuable members of our community. My family is originally from Juarez, Mexico. My grandfather was brought to the U.S. to work on the railroad. I know that immigrants like my family are looking for better lives regardless of where they came from, and are helping to build a better country in the process.

The time is now for common-sense immigration reform. America deserves a vote on citizenship for millions of aspiring Americans. I urge Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers’ leadership on this issue so that our state and our country can move forward.

Janie Hauff

Spokane Valley