Ann Toback Responds to the Senate Parliamentarian’s December 16 Ruling to Exclude Immigration Reform from the Build Back Better budget spending bill

December 14, 2021

(NEW YORK) — Once again, the Senate parliamentarian has issued advice against including an immigration reform provision in the Build Back Better budget reconciliation bill that would provide work permits and protection from deportation to millions of undocumented residents. The parliamentarian has rejected three proposals: a pathway to citizenship, a registry, and now work permits, the most minimal proposal of all to respect the dignity and contribution of immigrants in our nation and one that was included in the House version of the bill that passed in November.

We agree with the nearly 100 immigration law experts who reject the parliamentarian’s rationale. Since 1990, immigration provisions have passed five times as part of budget reconciliation bills. We also know that the parliamentarian’s advice is just that—advice—which should be rejected by Senate leadership, notably Vice President Kamala Harris who serves as President of the Senate. She and President Biden promised a pathway to citizenship to immigrants including DACA recipients and other undocumented residents.

Now is the time to deliver on that promise of a pathway to citizenship. Now is the time for our nation to recognize undocumented immigrants for their courageous labor during the pandemic, their ongoing contributions to our economy and as our neighbors and friends who are a fundamental part of the fabric of America.

The Workers Circle, founded in 1900 by Eastern European Jewish immigrants, has long supported a welcoming and inclusive immigration policy, understanding that our nation was built by immigrants and continues to benefit from their considerable contributions.

About the Workers Circle

Founded more than 120 years ago, the Workers Circle (formerly known as the Workmen’s Circle) is a social justice organization that powers progressive Jewish identity through Jewish cultural engagement, Yiddish language learning, multigenerational education, and social justice activism. For over a century we have provided this 360-degree approach to Jewish identity-building. Through contemporary cultural programs, strategic social justice campaigns, vibrant Yiddish language classes, interactive educational experiences and more, we connect Jewish adults, kids and families of all affiliations with their cultural heritage, working to build a better and more beautiful world for all. Learn more at www.circle.org.