May 12, 2017

Duckworth Delivers Remarks at Abuelitas Welcoming Ceremony

 

WAUKEGAN, IL - Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) addressed Mexican-American families at the welcoming ceremony of the Abuelitas Program, which helps reunite elderly people living in Mexico with family members legally residing in the United States that they often haven't been able to see in many years. The program assists these elderly people in their efforts to obtain temporary, 30-day visas to visit their families in the United States. During her remarks, Duckworth highlighted the importance of passing comprehensive immigration reform that keeps families together and doesn't tear them apart. A photo of the ceremony is available here.

"I know from personal experience just how painful it can be when our nation's immigration laws keep family members apart," said Senator Duckworth. "I'm proud to be a part of the Abuelitas Welcoming Ceremony today as grandparents are able to reunite with their loved ones. I look forward to continuing my efforts in the Senate to reform our immigration system to make it fair, humane and just."

To qualify for the Abuelitas Program, an individual must be at least 55 years old, have a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident brother, sister or child living in Illinois and have no prior unlawful record in the U.S. Today's ceremony helped 41 participants from Mexico reunite with their loved ones in the United States.

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