What do we want in a legalization program?
The National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights and an ad hoc coalition of immigrant rights groups proposes the following “principles” and points as a “guide” to supporting legalization and other immigration legislation and policies:

1. We need a comprehensive program that allows undocumented immigrants from all nationalities and living in the U.S. to obtain legal permanent residency.
2. Future immigrants should also be able to come here legally and safely, have access to permanent residency, and not fear criminal prosecution for unlawful entry or exit.
3. Immigrant workers’ rights should be promoted and protected; employer sanctions and the criminalization of work must be ended. Labor laws should be strictly enforced, and immigrant workers should have the freedom to join unions to improve wages and working conditions.
4. The human rights of all immigrants should be respected in the enforcement of immigration laws throughout the U.S. and at the nation’s borders.
5. Immigrants should be able to adjust their status and reunite with families in a fair and timely way.
6. There should be an end to unfair political asylum and deportation processes and other barriers to acquiring and maintaining permanent residency.
7. All immigrants should have access to all public services and benefits including driver licenses, higher education, and health care.
8. Ensure legal access and fair treatment of immigrants who are detained, or in political asylum or deportation procedures.
9. We need foreign policies that address the root causes of migration, such as sustainable development and fair trade agreements with other countries.
10. Protection, fairness, equality and benefits should be extended to all immigrants, without sacrificing the rights of some for the rights of others.

The National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (NNIRR) supports a wide-ranging immigrant rights program for the rights and dignity of all immigrants and refugees. We bring together a cross-section of immigrant community groups, advocates for immigrant rights, members of the labor and civil rights movements, faith communities, and others seeking social and economic justice. We invite you to join us in our efforts.