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AMNESTY JUSTICE FOR ALL IMMIGRANTS!
Why is this a Labor Issue? The current system exploits all workers The exploitation of undocumented workers is made possible by the current system of employer sanctions. Under this system, employers are required to check the immigration status of their employees. Despite this requirement, some employers hire undocumented immigrants to obtain cheap labor and control them by threatening to call the INS if they complain. This creates a pool of desperate workers which undermines labor standards and prevents them from joining unions for fear of being deported. Historically, immigrant workers from many countries have contributed their skills, talents and energy to the American labor movement. Immigration provides workers for the lowest paid, most undesirable jobs that U.S. citizens cannot or will not take. The promise of these empty jobs and a better life for their family are why thousands of immigrants make the dangerous journey to the U.S. Immigration is NOT responsible for the decline in living standards for U.S. workers. The real reason is the refusal of corporations to invest in America through job training, public education, career ladders and a living wage. Why is this a Women's Issue? The current system sanctions sexual harassment The same laws that make it a crime to work without papers, give employers a weapon against women looking for protection from unwanted sexual advancements or discriminatory treatment on the job. Most employees of underground sweatshops in the U.S. are women Illegal immigration status prevents them from complaining about, or organizing for, better conditions. Why is it a Community Issue? Hard work should be rewarded not criminalized A law that punishes people for working is wrong! It interferes with our greater goal of creating a vibrant, participatory society. It ignores the historical role immigrants have played in building our country and it's institutions. A new legalization program would allow all newcomers to invest in our communities by allowing them to fully participate in the democratic and civic aspects of our society. The current system denies equal protection & affects community safety Undocumented immigrants are prey for criminals and unscrupulous employers creating a climate of fear and unequal treatment in our communities. Fear keeps immigrants from reporting dangerous working conditions, labor or environmental violations, domestic and sexual violence and a host of other crimes blighting our neighborhoods. Why is it a Human Rights Issue? The current system fosters discrimination and undermines civil rights Many government studies have shown that employer sanctions have caused discrimination against U.S. born workers of color, who are suspected of being "foreign" and denied jobs. The current immigration system discriminates against people of color and forces them into the underground, illegal labor market where they are treated poorly. Forcing people of color into menial jobs without opportunities for advancement reinforces job segregation and stereotypes. |
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