Today, 25 migrants—many of whom have been waiting months or even years to have their asylum cases processed—have been allowed into the United States. This is part of the Biden administration’s efforts to roll back Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy. Although it is a small number of people, we’re filled with hope at this first step and relieved that action is being taken to bring back the tens of thousands of asylum seekers who were removed from the country and put in harm’s way.
The pandemic has been a trying time for all New American and BIPOC communities, but Asian American and Pacific Islanders in particular have faced not only the threat of the pandemic, but also the rising threat of hate and violence. This has led to instances like what we’re seeing in New York City: “About 70% of Asian Americans opted out of in-person learning, the most among all racial groups … Parents are scared not just of the bullying in school but also of the harassment other adults could direct at their families on the way to school.” New Americans and BIPOC folx must continue to speak up—especially those in elected office—to stop this hate once and for all.
Just a few weeks ago, Georgia State Senators introduced nine voter suppression bills. These bills would have wide-ranging consequences that make it harder for #PeopleLikeUs to vote, including eliminating no-excuse absentee voting, revoking automatic registration, preventing volunteer groups from registering people to vote by mail, and taking away ballot drop boxes, just to name a few of the many impacts. If passed, this legislation would overwhelmingly hurt New American and BIPOC communities; taking away our right to vote and reversing our hard-won progress in Georgia.
We can’t let this happen. Make your voice heard and tell Georgia State Senators to oppose these discriminatory bills!
Feel like you’re forgetting something? Make sure it’s not your application to join the NAL Family! The deadline for our National Women’s Training is February 22nd (that’s Monday!) so don’t wait—apply today! If you’re not able to make that training, check out our two regional Ready to Lead trainings. We hope to see you soon!
This month, as part of our efforts to highlight Black leaders, historical figures, and movements for Black History Month, we’re shining the light on a few Black New American leaders in our own network.
The inimitable Florida State Representative Dotie Joseph took over our Instagram account yesterday, giving us a look into a day in the life of a busy legislator. Go check it out and see her leadership in action!
NAL alum and Wisconsin State Assemblymember Samba Baldeh will be taking over our account on Monday, followed by Lewiston City Councilor Safiya Khalid and Portland (Maine) City Councilor Pious Ali. Keep on checking our Instagram along with our other social media channels for more great Black History Month content.