Introduction

My name is Juan Carlos Centeno Vazquez, and I'm advocating for comprehensive immigration reform on behalf of millions of undocumented immigrants who have lived and worked in the United States for decades, contributing significantly to our communities and economy.  My own parents, Ramona Vazquez and Miguel Centeno, lived and worked in the US for over 25 years, building a life for our family.  Tragically, they passed away without realizing their dream of legal residency.  Their story, and the stories of countless other families, highlights the urgent need for a more just and humane immigration system.

 

 

The Problem

Our current immigration system is broken. It separates families, hinders economic growth, and leaves millions living in the shadows, vulnerable to exploitation and constant fear.  Undocumented immigrants contribute significantly to our society – working in essential sectors, paying taxes, and enriching our communities. Yet, they lack basic rights and opportunities, facing challenges like limited access to education and healthcare, workplace exploitation, and the constant threat of deportation.

Our Proposal: A Comprehensive Solution

We need a comprehensive immigration reform that addresses the root causes of our broken system and provides a pathway to citizenship for those who have earned it.  This reform should include:

A.  Pathway to Citizenship:

1. For DACA Recipients and Dreamers:  A clear and expedited path to citizenship for individuals who were granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status and those who arrived as minors (under 18) and meet specific criteria.
2. For Long-Term Residents: A pathway to citizenship for undocumented individuals who have resided in the U.S. for at least 20 years and meet the following requirements:
    *   Physical presence for 20+ years.
    *   Good moral character (no felony or serious crime convictions).
    *   High school diploma or GED, or current enrollment in a program.
    *   Proof of income tax filings for at least 10 years.
    *   Payment of a fine for entering without legal authorization.
*Spouses and children of qualifying individuals should be included in their applications.

B. Permanent Legal Residence with a Path to Citizenship:

-For undocumented individuals who have lived in the U.S. for more than 5 years and meet similar requirements as above (5+ years residency, good moral character, education, tax filings, fine payment).  These individuals would be eligible to apply for citizenship after meeting the 20-year residency requirement.

C. Temporary Legal Status:

For individuals present in the U.S. two years before the bill is introduced to the Congress.  This status would allow for a two-year work permit, after which individuals would be required to pursue a visa or adjustment of status from their country of origin.

D. Strengthened Border Security: 

Appropriate funding and resources for effective border management.

E. Reformed Refugee and Asylum Program: 

A more humane and efficient system for processing asylum claims.

F. Expanded Work Visa Program: 

Addressing labor shortages in various sectors, not just high-skilled jobs.

G. E-Verify Enforcement: 

Mandatory E-Verify system for all workplaces to ensure legal employment.

H. Deportation Case Review: 

Reviewal of deportation cases to reunite families, prioritizing cases where individuals have no criminal record.

**The Facts:**

- Undocumented immigrants contribute significantly to our economy, paying billions in taxes. (Source: The Center for Migration Studies, The Cato Institute)
- Immigrants, including undocumented immigrants, are less likely to commit crimes than native-born citizens. (Source: The Cato Institute)
- A majority of Americans support a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants who meet certain requirements. (Source: Pew Research Center)
-Undocumented immigrants contribute billions to Social Security without receiving benefits. (Source: The Social Security Administration)

**Call to Action:**

We urge Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform that reflects our values as a nation – a reform that strengthens our economy, keeps families together, and provides a pathway to citizenship for those who have earned it.  Sign this petition and share it with your networks.  Together, we can create a more just and prosperous future for all.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Juan Carlos Centeno Vazquez

Help me by sharing this Petition on your social media and or by making a donation, so I can reach more people and get more signatures.

https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=MLVPSYLJNQFBG