(Washington, DC, October 20, 2015)— The U.S. Senate voted 54-45 against advancing a federal bill that would have increased penalties for immigrants who reenter the United States after being deported and punished cities that protect immigrants from unjustified deportation.
Statement from National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) Executive Director Kate Kendell, Esq:
“We are relieved that yet another discriminatory congressional attack against the immigrant community in the United States has been blocked. It is disappointing, however, that rather than advancing genuine immigration reform that honors the dignity and value of all human lives, irrespective of their country of origin, the Senate would prefer to punish those who are seeking safety, shelter, and freedom from oppression and to unfairly target local governments seeking to combat anti-immigrant discrimination and to ensure the safety of all.”