Editor,
For almost 100 years, the League of Women Voters has been an activist, grassroots organization defending democracy. The League is proud to be nonpartisan, neither supporting nor opposing candidates or political parties at any level of government, but always working on vital issues of concern to members and the public.

Today, immigration is in the forefront of the minds of many Americans. It is also a priority for the League of Women Voters nationwide. We support immigration policies that promote the reunification of immediate families; meet the country’s economic, business and employment needs; and are responsive to those facing political persecution or humanitarian crises.

We want an immigration system that ensures fair treatment under the law for all persons. In transition to a reformed system, we support provisions for unauthorized immigrants already in the country to earn legal status. We support federal laws that provide efficient, expeditious systems for immigrants to enter the United States. Seeking asylum at points of entry into the U.S. is part of our legal immigration process, and assaults on asylum seekers are un-American.

Nationwide, the League of Women Voters stands in solidarity with immigrants. The 116th Congress must take immediate action to pass common sense, fair immigration policies that end the crisis at our border, ends the separation of families, and provides a path to citizenship. We urge citizens of like minds to contact their members of Congress and let their views be known.

Petra Pietrzak, Rhinelander
Board Member, League of Women Voters of the Northwoods