Want to support your neighbors but don't know how? Here are four strategies for you to try.
Educate yourself.
How do immigrants help the US economy?
Resources on immigration advocacy from Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of NC.
Do immigrants pay taxes?
Information from the Interfaith Immigration Coalition
Resources on immigration advocacy from Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of NC.
Do immigrants pay taxes?
Information from the Interfaith Immigration Coalition
Watch your language.
Dehumanizing immigrants by using language like "illegals" or "aliens," furthers stereotypes. Better terms include "immigrants," "refugees," or "friend" brings to mind actual humans, rather than supernatural enemies.
Replace "illegals" with "undocumented." Did you know that being in the US without proper documentation is approximately as criminal as a parking ticket is?
Replace "illegals" with "undocumented." Did you know that being in the US without proper documentation is approximately as criminal as a parking ticket is?
Tell a different story.
There are so many stories about immigrants, yet the prevailing narrative is that immigrants hurt the US.
Remind people that immigrants are here because US employers hire them illegally. If employers did not hire immigrants, they would not be able to work. Where is the anger at the US employers?
Remind people that immigrants are often leaving horrific circumstances and their main goal is to save their families. Consider what you would do to protect the people you love. Challenge others to do the same.
Remind people that immigrants generally are not trying to hurt the US. Instead they are trying to find circumstances that will allow them to flourish.
Remind people that those who come here without proper documentation are unlikely to commit crime because they do not want to draw attention to themselves. It just doesn't make sense.
Remind people that immigrants are here because US employers hire them illegally. If employers did not hire immigrants, they would not be able to work. Where is the anger at the US employers?
Remind people that immigrants are often leaving horrific circumstances and their main goal is to save their families. Consider what you would do to protect the people you love. Challenge others to do the same.
Remind people that immigrants generally are not trying to hurt the US. Instead they are trying to find circumstances that will allow them to flourish.
Remind people that those who come here without proper documentation are unlikely to commit crime because they do not want to draw attention to themselves. It just doesn't make sense.
Humanize Immigrants.
If you know immigrants and can tell positive stories about your relationships, do so. Remember not to jeopardize anyone's safety by giving away identifying details that could be used for harm.
If you don't know immigrants, find an advocacy organization in your town and volunteer. Your life will be enriched.
Take a look at these videos to give you more personal stories to share.
If you don't know immigrants, find an advocacy organization in your town and volunteer. Your life will be enriched.
Take a look at these videos to give you more personal stories to share.
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