Arizona Interfaith documents

Below are excerpts from two documents issued by Arizona Interfaith at the April 19 convention Rabbi Andrew Straus attended at the Arizona State Capitol.

Statement on immigration

As representatives of diverse faith traditions, we come together to articulate a common moral message that runs deep within each of our religious communities. Human life is sacred, to be respected, valued and protected.

The state of Arizona is a border community. On our border and in our communities two countries meet, different languages seek to communicate, varied cultures encounter each other, and people try to understand each other and live in peace and harmony. As Arizonans, we have a special responsibility to reach out to and welcome our brothers and sisters as members of God's family. This is a blessing and also a challenge.

Tragically, the legitimate desire and responsibility of our nation to safeguard its border, along with serious socio-economic challenges in other countries and ruthless people who take advantage of those on the move, have contributed to an alarming number of migrant deaths in recent years, most particularly in remote desert areas of our own state. We cannot remain silent as these deaths continue to mount on our doorstep.

We call upon our congregations to ban together to stop the deaths in the desert. Likewise, we call upon our congregations to join us in educating our fellow Arizonans on the complex situation of immigration and the policies that govern it. It is our hope that the principles and policy recommendations (below) will help inform these educational efforts.

The contribution of immigrants to the State of Arizona and the United States of America is rich, varied, and constructive. We should embrace these contributions and protect the human rights of those who make them. Ultimately, from purposeful dialogue and working together we can create the political will to change laws, improve lives, and build stronger, more just communities.

Gerald Kicanas, bishop, Catholic Diocese of Tucson

Thomas J. Olmsted, bishop, Catholic Diocese of Phoenix

William Dew, Methodist bishop

Michael Niels, Lutheran bishop

Cally Rogers-Witte, United Church of Christ conference minister

Kirk Smith, bishop-elect of the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona

Andrew Straus, Rabbi of Temple Emanuel of Tempe

    Policy recommendations for reform

  • Current border enforcement strategy is a failed policy that must be re-evaluated. Since 1998, more than 2,000 migrants have lost their lives in the U.S.-Mexico desert, trying to make their way into the United States. Border control enforcement measures must be applied proportionately and humanely.

  • The status of undocumented persons currently living in the United States must be addressed. Legalizing the undocumented workforce would stabilize that workforce as well as their families. A stable workforce strengthens the country.

  • Family unity and reunification must be the cornerstone of the U.S. immigration system.

  • An employment-focused immigration program must allow workers and their families to enter the United States to live and work in a safe, legal, orderly, and humane manner through recognized ports of entry.

  • Immigration policy must recognize that root causes of migration lie in environmental, economic, and trade inequities. Trade agreements must be negotiated in ways that build mutual and just international relationships. New strategies must include incentives for the public and private sectors to invest in economically and environmentally sustainable development in the sending communities.


Return to Main Story