U.S. Rep. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) joined bipartisan lawmakers, veterans, families, farmers, faith leaders, employers, and the American Business Immigration Coalition at the U.S. Capitol on Apr. 22 to urge passage of the Dignity Act (H.R. 4393).
The event brought together a range of voices from across America who shared personal stories about how the current immigration system affects their lives and businesses. The speakers aimed to counter misinformation about the legislation and highlight its potential impact.
Salazar addressed concerns raised during the press conference and rejected recent false claims about the bill. “This is the American way of doing business: being noble, being fair, and doing what is right,” said Salazar. “It is our duty to protect families, honor veterans, support long-term workers, and give businesses the certainty they need to grow. Today we heard that fear is reaching faith communities, manufacturers, farms, and homes across America. I thank those voices for bringing the truth to this debate and rallying behind the Dignity Act. I welcome the debate, and I welcome the work ahead to get this done.”
Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Representative Don Bacon (R-NE), and Representative Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) spoke in support of reform efforts based on feedback from their constituents facing labor shortages or seeking stability in their communities.
Angela Della Valle described her family’s struggles under current policies: “I am a United States citizen and a school teacher, yet my husband of more than 20 years is sitting in a detention center in Louisiana while I beg for his release,” said Della Valle.
Other speakers included Danitza James—who spoke for foreign-born veterans—and Massey Villarreal—a business leader warning against continued political inaction affecting Hispanic voters’ trust in both parties.
Rebecca Shi of ABIC highlighted economic benefits: “Work permits for long-term immigrants leveled the playing field for American workers by bringing all workers under the same set of rules… We want solutions.” Joseph Castleberry closed by noting ongoing fear among immigrant families due to enforcement actions.
Supporters say momentum for passing immigration reform continues to build nationally with more than 40 Members of Congress backing it alongside over 90 organizations from diverse sectors including agriculture associations, chambers of commerce, advocacy groups such as FWD.us or National Retail Federation among others.
The coalition behind H.R. 4393 describes it as currently “the only serious legislation” before Congress aiming to modernize immigration laws while addressing workforce needs.
