Endorsement program represents beginning of NILC-IJF's seven-figure investment in messaging research and advertising to help elect more candidates who support pro-immigrant policies at the federal level
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2022
CONTACT
Juan Gastelum, gastelum@immigrantjusticefund.org, 213-375-3149
WASHINGTON — The NILC Immigrant Justice Fund today announced the launch of its candidate endorsement program along with its first endorsed candidates, Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., ahead of the 2022 midterm elections.
With its new endorsement program, NILC Immigrant Justice Fund will support candidates who commit to advancing pro-immigrant policies, including a pathway to citizenship for millions of immigrants who make up the fabric of communities across the United States. The endorsement program includes a six-figure digital ad campaign and a $1 million investment in voter polling, messaging and research.
Bri Gillis, political director of the NILC Immigrant Justice Fund, said: “We are proud to endorse Senator Alex Padilla and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal – two steadfast champions for immigrant communities who have exercised bold leadership in the fight for pro-immigrant policies in Congress. Through our endorsements in the 2022 cycle, we look forward to working with candidates who are committed to building a fair, 21st-century immigration system and who recognize that immigrants are a strength to our nation.”
Senator Alex Padilla said: “As the proud son of Mexican immigrants, I know the contributions immigrants make to our nation, and why we must fight for a vision of America that welcomes immigrants with dignity and humanity. It’s past time for Congress to fix our broken immigration system and fully recognize the essential contribution of immigrants to our country. I am honored to receive the NILC Immigrant Justice Fund’s endorsement, and I look forward to continue working together to advance our shared commitment to passing bold, meaningful immigration reform that meets the urgency of this moment.”
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said: “I'm incredibly proud to receive the NILC Immigrant Justice Fund's endorsement and to work alongside them to finally pass comprehensive immigration reform. I immigrated to this country when I was just 16 years old, sent by my parents so I’d have opportunities to thrive and a life that would not have otherwise been possible otherwise—the same dreams that have drawn countless immigrants to this country and led to our nation’s growth and success. That is why, as an activist and in Congress, I have never stopped fighting for just and humane immigration policy reform that welcomes and integrates immigrants into our communities. This is about who we are as a country and I will continue to use every opportunity to lead our efforts in Congress."
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