Immigration is a hot button topic these days in the world of politics, especially in the wake of Arizona Statute Senate Bill 1070. What is the Episcopal Church's stance on immigration reform? How are our immigration politics related to our lives of faith?

A few weeks ago in a June 16-18 meeting in Lithicum Heights, Maryland, Executive Council's Committee on Advocacy and Networking for Mission wrestled with just these questions. In a summary report, Episcopal News Service reported on two resolutions. The first resolution (A&N012)

stated that the language, intent and enforcement of Arizona Statute Senate Bill 1070 "poses a challenge to our fundamental Christian responsibility to respect the dignity of every human being"; directed the secretary of Executive Council to communicate this resolution to the governor of Arizona, the majority leaders of their legislative houses and the congressional delegation from Arizona; called upon the federal government to swiftly and urgently enact immigration reform.

The second (A&N014) was more of a call to action for all. It

acknowledged that there are various forms of "thoughtful engagement" that many Episcopalians have taken to stand in solidarity with those affected by Arizona Statute SB 1070 and those working to overturn it; urged Episcopalians to participate in activities which support those who are affected by the statute, work for comprehensive immigration reform, including becoming informed on immigration issues, developing and strengthening local partnerships, visiting border communities or engaging in economic boycotts.

So, in acting out these resolutions we invite you to educate yourselves and those you serve on what the church is already doing and to participate in collective action. Next month, just prior to the House of Bishop's meeting in Arizona, Bishop Kirk Smith will lead a border visit for interested bishops. Watch Episcopal News Service for a full report as the date draws near. Also, read more about the Episcopal Church's engagement with immigration reform by joining the Episcopal Church's Immigration Advocacy Network, a part of the Office of Government Relations. Simply email Ana White, Immigration and Refugee Policy Analyst at our Washington Office and she'll be happy to send you information.

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