[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 52 (Wednesday, April 17, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H2078]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           IMMIGRATION REFORM

  (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, creating an immigration process for new 
American immigrants is not just an issue that will shape the future for 
one group.
  So much is at stake for 3 million African and Caribbean immigrants 
that live and work here. They're a vital part of our future as 
hardworking, upstanding individuals in search of freedom and a better 
life. They also deserve a fair system that works, and they are more 
than just a number on a page.
  Last week, a young lady came to my office who was born in America to 
Haitian parents. Her name is Natalie. Natalie is a graduate student who 
has job offers lined up. She is ready to work and commits herself to 
this country. But Natalie can't do those things because of our broken 
immigration system. She is neither recognized as a citizen here nor in 
Haiti. While in tears, she said she has no home. She can't see her 
family. She's scared and feels alone. Natalie is one of those 11 
million people that are looking for a pathway to citizenship.
  It is time to pass commonsense legislation that fixes our immigration 
system once and for all, one that serves our interests and reflects our 
values for Natalie and the 11 million other Natalies who call America 
home.

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