[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 8 (Wednesday, January 14, 2009)]
[House]
[Page H201]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM IS NEEDED

  (Mr. BACA asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on behalf of the 14 
million undocumented immigrants who otherwise would not have a voice.
  Our country is in desperate need of comprehensive immigration reform 
to ensure the security of America and to bring vulnerable families out 
of the shadows. We all believe in strong enforcement of our borders and 
the rule of the law, but we are a Nation rooted in family, faith, in 
core values.
  What should be done about the 12 to 14 million undocumented 
immigrants in this country? Immigrants are part of American fabric. In 
fact, the work ethic of immigrants is what built this Nation and still 
continues to do so.
  Immigrant families are facing more than just a failing economy; they 
live in constant fear of being torn apart. We must work together 
towards comprehensive immigration reform that respects families and 
includes family unification.
  I urge my colleagues to help these working families by passing 
comprehensive immigration reform. Let's make America great; let's not 
divide it.

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