David McCumber's column ("Gillibrand rattles chain of command," Aug. 9) reminded me that if immigration reform is to pass, we can't rest.
We need to keep up the pressure. I am inspired by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand's work to transform the military's response to its pervasive culture of sexual assault.
Undaunted by recent setbacks, she continues to advocate one by one leaders of Congress and the military.
As representatives hear from all sides, we must remind them that real immigration reform includes an attainable road to citizenship, access to affordable health care, nutrition assistance, and ensuring that immigrant taxpayers have the same economic opportunities as everyone.
On a recent visit to St. Paul, Minn., my fellow Sisters of St. Joseph introduced me to their friends: Shegitu Kebed of Ethoipia, Thupten Datak of Tibet and Vina Moeun of Cambodia. These amazing people came to our shores searching for a better life.
Today, they are U.S. citizens and successful business and homeowners. Without them, our country would be less beautiful.
The time for humane immigration reform is now. All immigrants should be treated with dignity and have the same responsibilities and opportunities to contribute to their communities as the rest of us.
Immigration reform is an investment worth making. Like Gillibrand, may we not give up struggling for what is right.
Doreen Glynn, CSJ
Justice coordinator
Sisters of St. Joseph
of Carondelet, Albany Province
Latham