CIIC Statement on the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Aileen Leonard Dibra
e: aileen.dibra@ciic-usa.org
t: 914-837-2007
w: www.ciic-usa.org
November 21, 2016–Many immigrants and their families are expressing deep concern in light of the recent U.S. Presidential election. President-elect Trump made many concerning statements regarding immigration and immigrants during his campaign, and has recently started discussing his plans to re-evaluate the current immigration system. The Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers (CIIC) and its membership throughout the United States recognize and understand that people are fearful in these uncertain times.
Regardless of the election results, CIIC stands firm in its mission to support our membership in their direct service work with Irish immigrants. CIIC will continue to be a strong, cohesive, representative and national voice for the needs of its member centers, and in turn the greater community of Irish immigrants in the U.S. In its national role, CIIC will continue to promote comprehensive immigration reform and support the members of our undocumented community. Additionally, CIIC encourages ongoing support for the Exchange Visitor program, as a critical investment in our global future, increasing mutual understanding between the people of the Unites States and their counterparts in other countries. Finally, CIIC and its membership stand together as a Coalition against hate crimes and attacks of any nature toward immigrants and/ or any group that has been deemed “Other.”
CIIC encourages those with fears and concerns to remain calm, but to also reach out to their local Irish center. The centers are available and prepared to be the first point of contact in providing safe and confidential support to community members, where individuals can receive current and accurate information, allowing them to identify their next steps. Details for local Irish centers can be found here.
CIIC and its membership are part of the fabric of our communities and are committed to remain as such. CIIC looks forward to building bridges and collaborating with all who aim to promote a welcoming society where all members are respected and valued.
ABOUT COALITION OF IRISH IMMIGRATION CENTERS
The Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers (CIIC) was established in 1996 to promote the welfare of Irish immigrants in the US at a national level. The CIIC is funded by a generous grant from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Emigrant Support Programme.
The Coalition serves as a national umbrella organization representing Irish immigration and community centers throughout the United States that are committed to providing support to Irish immigrants. The Coalition strives to be a strong, cohesive and representative voice for the needs of its member centers, and in turn the greater community of Irish immigrants in the US. The Coalition prioritizes the sharing of information and the creation of best practices as a way to support and assist its member centers in their direct service work. CIIC member organizations are located in California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Philadelphia and Washington.
To learn more about CIIC visit, www.ciic-usa.org
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