RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, there are an estimated 500,000 undocumented residents living, working, and paying taxes in Illinois, with at least half residing in Chicago and paying taxes to the City of Chicago; and,
WHEREAS, undocumented residents live in fear of being detained and deported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); and,
WHEREAS, many undocumented residents have lived in America for much if not the majority of their lives, and have families and jobs here that do not exist in their countries of origin; and,
WHEREAS, the current federal immigration policies have resulted in the cruel separation of families; and,
WHEREAS, many undocumented workers work in industires deemed essential during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring their vital contributions to the American economy and way of life;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED
Byron Sigcho-Lopez Alderman, Ward 25
The members of the Chicago City Council shall support the passage of HR1435 the federal "American Right To Family Act" introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Bobby Rush that provides temporary residency or a work permit to anyone living in the U.S. for 10 or more years or who has a U.S. citizen or DACA eligible child or spouse. The bill also extends these protections and removes barriers for those who have been deported but who otherwise qualify.
