To The Editor:

As a founding member of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, an independent grass-roots organization of like-minded women from across Newtown, I have listened to many voices struggling with the president’s cruel immigration policy and its devastating consequences. For those who are interested in promoting solutions, as we are in the DWC, the research shows voters are tired of fear tactics to frighten us into accepting violent remedies like caravans of masked agents sweeping people into unmarked vehicles. I was heartened by the 100 or so Newtown residents who showed up Tuesday for the Free America Walkout rally who are looking for peaceful, humane solutions to immigration issues.

A 2020 Gallup poll showed the highest number of people, 77 percent, believe immigration is good for America. Given the ongoing backlash against ICE, I would not be surprised if that number has increased. I think voters are eager to embrace options that restore our humanity and address the economic benefits of having migrant workers. One such option proposed by many Democratic and some Republican leaders involves levying tough restraints on employers who hire undocumented workers in combination with streamlined opportunities for working migrants to become legal immigrants.

While I don’t have the ability to draft a policy and push it through our state’s legislature, I know District 106 Assembly candidate Brandon Moore does. As the proud son of two working-class parents, Brandon understands the economic struggles of hard-working people and the challenges facing them. He will fight for legal opportunities so workers who support the backbone of our economy can continue to contribute. Our community and our state heavily rely on these workers. Approximately 20 percent of workers in Connecticut are immigrants. They support our service industries like construction, and account for most of Connecticut’s job growth in the last decade.

Assembly candidate Brandon Moore has worked with the current Connecticut administration to develop workforce solutions. His efforts helped thousands of people find employment. Let’s put his experience to work for us! Support Brandon Moore for the District 106 Assembly seat.

Laura Miller

Co-founder, Democratic Women’s Caucus