Immigration Reform Leaders meet with President Obama

Rachel LaBruyere: "Today (3-11-10) Ali Noorani, Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum and Chair of the Reform Immigration for America Campaign met with President Obama and was joined by other immigrant rights leaders from grassroots, labor, and faith organizations for a meeting at the White House on next steps for comprehensive immigration reform legislation."

Statement from Ali Noorani:

We had a lively and straightforward meeting with the President and his staff. We made clear that we expect him to keep his promise to overhaul our broken immigration system. We need a system that is fair, just, humane, and that serves our nation’s interests.

The President indicated that his administration is committed to driving a bill forward in the spring of 2010. Based on our conversation, we are optimistic and expecting aggressive and urgent action from the White House on comprehensive immigration reform before March 21st. That day, tens of thousands of Americans are prepared to take an unprecedented action carrying forward the President’s commitment to comprehensive immigration reform in Congress and finally fixing our broken immigration system.

It’s time for Congress to get moving. Immigration reform for America is long overdue, and it’s past time for the Republican Leadership to stop playing games and get on board with immigration legislation that is good for the economy, good for workers, and good for American families. Senator Graham (R-SC) has shown great courage by joining with Senator Schumer (D-NY) to sponsor comprehensive immigration reform legislation. That isn’t enough, however. This issue is an opportunity for the parties to work together and prove they can deliver for the American people. Senator Graham’s bipartisan leadership should be an example to others and more Republicans should get on board.