Dominican Sisters of Hope Home

SUCCESSFUL SUMMIT

On the Long Climb towards Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Organized by the Hope Justice Committee

On Sunday, September 18, 2011, the Hope Justice committee held an Immigration Summit at Mariandale. Attendance was over 100. Members of NED5, co-signers to our joint corporate stance, were there wanting to learn and do more for immigrants everywhere. The goal of the day was to: contribute to a shift in the U.S. approach to immigration law and practice, and to develop strategies for future collaboration.

A tableau reflection, presented by three immigrants and one sister, called us all to attention on the immensity of the issue and the SummitPanelists changes it calls forth from us. Panelists representing law, faith education and the Dream Act fed both our heads and hearts. Moderator Dr. Anele Heiges, OP (Adrian) introduced the panel and following their comments, asked focused questions. Panelists were Christopher Portelli, Esq. of NY Legal Assistance Group in NYC; Deirdra Cornell, author, Catholic Worker, Maryknoll Lay Missioner in Mexico, wife and mother of 5 with 30 migrant godchildren; and Rev. Petero Sabune, of the African Partnership Office for the Episcopal Church, who spoke about immigration facts and fiction.

Later three different workshops were held on "Perspectives on Immigration." Dr. Anna Brown, professor of social justice at St. Peter's College and her student Katalina Acorno led the panel on Education. Roger Algase, Esq, with 30 years of experience in immigration law, spoke on law and the importance of good legal representation. Advocacy Rights was the topic for presenters Lili Salmeron of Northern Manhattan Coalition for Immigration Rights and Mizue Aizeki of the Immigrant Defense Project.

Finally, Pat Jelly led a plenary session in which next steps were identified. Attendees filled out postcards claiming their commitment beyond this Summit Day. Examples include:

Vocalizing my positive position regarding immigrants
Study and speak with friends on the military component of the Dream Act
Network as much as possible
Get more involved with local endeavors regarding secure communities
Work with immigrants through literacy classes, work with staff and have them work with students
Publicize our corporate stance in our school, parishes, ministries so all can see what Dominicans stand for
Continue our immmigration work and widen our circles
Promote absolute need to give voice and action to immigration policies and reform initiatives
Become more informed and increase awareness
Converse with 5 family members opposed to immigration and the Dream Act

SummitCommittee
Some members of the Hope Justice Committee and volunteers.

Sponsors: The Dominican Sisters of Hope, with the Dominican Sisters of Amityville, Blauvelt, and Sparkill, NY and The Dominican Sisters of Caldwell, NJ + American Friends Service Committee + International Public Policy Institute + WESPAC Foundation + Dominican Leadership Conference + Partnership for Global Justice + Jersey City Truth Action Peace Coalition (JCTAP) + Action 231 + Jersey City Peace Movement + Anakbayan + Jersey City Soccer + Sisters of Divine Compassion