IMMIGRANT GROUP COUNTERS ANTI-IMMIGRANT BILLBOARDS IN NEW YORK CITY

A few months ago we brought you a story about a wave of anti-immigration billboards going up in a Queens neighborhood in New York City (see http://www.visalaw.com/99sep/39sep99.html).  Now a coalition of about 20 community groups have gotten together to battle such anti-immigrant sentiments.  NICE, or New Immigrant Community Empowerment, is attempting to organize immigrants so they will become politically active.

In response to billboards erected by Project USA blaming immigrants for traffic jams and other social ills, NICE has erected posters pointing out that each year immigrants pay $90 billion in taxes. 

The organization already has a diverse membership representing many different immigrant communities, and many of those active in NICE are running for state and local political offices.  On November 1, the group held its initial conference, focusing on the need for increased political participation by immigrants.  Among the ways the group hopes to increase the political power of immigrants is by highlighting the records of local politicians on issues that impact immigration.  The political might of immigrants is becoming an increasing important focus in the national political arena as well.

Undeterred by opposition, Project USA founder Craig Nelson has been erecting anti-immigrant billboards in cities around the US.  Thirty billboards have already been erected in California, Minnesota, New York and North Carolina, and Nelson has signed contracts with various local groups across South Carolina.

Interestingly, Nelson has admitted to employing unauthorized workers in the restaurant of which he was part owner until recently.  He admitted to never checking to see whether an employee was authorized to work in the US.

< Back | Next >

Disclaimer: This newsletter is provided as a public service and not intended to establish an attorney client relationship. Any reliance on information contained herein is taken at your own risk.