The League of Women Voters of Washington believes that all residents of Washington state, regardless of immigration status or citizenship, should be treated with dignity and respect. This means that all residents, regardless of immigra on status or citizenship, should have access to essential state-funded services, have the opportunity to avail themselves of legal representation in court and immigration proceedings, and have the opportunity to live and work in safety. The League encourages all elected officials and government leaders in Washington to continue to take action to ensure these fundamental rights. It also means that political leaders in Washington have an obligation to condemn xenophobia, discrimina on, and an-immigrant rhetoric.
Welcoming Immigrants in Washington State printable pdf
The League of Women Voters of Washington State believes:
1. Xenophobia, racism, discrimination against immigrants, and an-immigration rhetoric must be condemned at all levels of government, business, and civil society. In particular, elected officials and government leaders in Washington state should take clear and consistent actions to counter these threats to democracy.
2. The State of Washington should continue to challenge federal policies that undermine the rights of immigrants in the state.
3. The State of Washington should take leadership in ensuring access to legal services for all persons, regardless of immigration status. This is particularly important for immigrants in removal proceedings.
4. State and local governments should seek to provide essen al services to all residents, regardless of immigration status.
5. The State of Washington should take steps to ensure effective coordination amongst state agencies and other organizations that interact with immigrants and refugees, including funding to permit such coordination.
6. Washington state should ensure safe working conditions, fair pay and benefits, and the right to unionize for all workers, regardless of immigration status.
7. The state should urge the federal government to issue work authorization permits to immigrants and refugees.
