Column: Comprehensive US immigration reform needed

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization, particularly with regard to candidates; we never endorse candidates. On important issues, we educate the public or we advocate for our positions. When we educate, we present both sides of an issue, usually in a moderated panel discussion format with speakers equally representing both sides of the discussion. However, when we undertake extensive and comprehensive study that leads to league consensus and a league position, we advocate for that position. This can occur at the local, state or national level and sometimes at all three.

In 2007, our local league participated in an immigration study of the League of Women Voters of the U.S. We did extensive study and held two consensus meetings, as did other local leagues across the country. After that study, in 2008, the LWVUS adopted an immigration policy based on the results of those consensus meetings.

To summarize, that position states that the League of Women Voters believes U.S. immigration policy should promote reunification of immediate families; meet the economic, business and employment needs of the U.S.; be responsive to those facing political persecution or humanitarian crises; provide for student visas; ensure fair treatment under the law for all people; and in transition to a reformed system, support provisions for unauthorized immigrants already in the country to earn legal status.

The League of Woman Voters of Larimer County has sponsored numerous forums in the past year discussing this important issue. The most recent, “Comprehensive Immigration Reform: What Should it Look Like?” helped members of the league and the community better understand the need for comprehensive immigration reform beyond President Obama’s executive action on immigration. The presentation, by Dr. Stephen Mumme (political science department, Colorado State University) and Al Snyder (Fort Collins immigration attorney), included a review of an immigration system that reflects the league's position on immigration by providing a clear pathway to citizenship, protecting the rights of immigrants, protecting the civil liberties and human rights of immigrants, and providing immigrants access to services.

Comprehensive immigration reform is a timely subject and the League of Women Voters of Larimer County will continue to advocate until this goal is achieved. Please watch for announcements of future presentations. For more information about all the national, state and local league positions for which we advocate, visit http://noconow.co/1PAEyZm

Lynn Young is a spokesperson for the League of Women Voters of Larimer County.