Immigration reform advocates enthusiastic, but wary of its prospects

By Carmen Blanco
Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON – An enthusiastic clamor of supporters rallied for immigration reform at a June 4 town hall meeting, though a subtext of frustration arose around the postponement of a meeting with President Barack Obama.

Advocates from 31 states gathered at the Church of the Reformation on Capitol Hill to build support for comprehensive immigration reform legislation. It was one part of events launching the Reform Immigration for America Campaign, a national effort bringing together grass-roots organizations, labor unions, business interests and faith-based communities to support a revamped immigration policy.

Proponents filled the seats, lined the walls and stood at the back of the church to hear personal testimonies from individuals and families on how the current policy is affecting their lives and why reform is not only necessary but urgent. Signs reading “Reforms Not Raidsâ€