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National Evangelical Hispanic Alliance formed



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DALLAS, Texas — A newly formed coalition representing tens of millions of Hispanic evangelicals announced its opposition to what it called some of the flawed immigration bills currently before Congress and proposed tightening border security and developing ways for undocumented workers to become productive members of society.

The group, known as The Hispanic Coalition for Comprehensive Immigration Reform, met with reporters in this Dallas suburb to outline its positions.

“We are deeply concerned with many of the anti-immigrant provisions that have been introduced and some of which were passed by the House of Representatives,” said Pastor Lynn Godsey, founder and president of a Dallas-Fort Worth Hispanic alliance known as A.H.E.M.

“We encourage the Senate and the administration to enact comprehensive immigration reform.”

During its news conference, the coalition outlined goals including reforms in family-based immigration systems to significantly reduce waiting times for separate families who currently wait many years to be reunited. The group also wants to create legal avenues for workers and their families who wish to migrate to the U.S. to enter the country and work in a safe, legal and orderly manner with their rights fully protected

“These proposals represent a compassionate approach,” said Pastor Mark Gonzales, founder and president of the Standing for Truth Foundation. “What we are seeking is a more-balanced and comprehensive approach to immigration, and we believe this accomplishes that.”

The coalition represents at least 20 million Spanish-speaking evangelicals, one of the fastest growing Christian groups in the country today.

Leaders emphasized their opposition to H.R. Bill 4437, which would subject to arrest anyone who assisted undocumented workers.

“We need to find a way to stop the flow of illegal immigration, but find a way to deal humanely and compassionately with the undocumented workers currently in the country,” said the Rev. Sam Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.

The newly formed coalition will continue to hold discussions on next steps and plans to organize a national congress of evangelical leaders in Dallas later this month.