Citizenship Night in Framingham: Immigration Reform Now!

Considered an unprecedented event for the Brazilian community and has the support of almost all entities, associations and other Brazilian representations,  the “Citizenship Night – Immigration Reform Now”, will take place on Saturday (21) at the High School of Framingham (Massachusetts) .

Reverend Josimar Salum, one of the organizers explained how it all happened and what is expected for this day. “All began in 2005 when a group of pastors and leaders organized BMNET – Brazilian Ministers Network. Our purpose is to serve the community as a representative voice and fight for Social Justice,” he explains.

In February this year, the group met with Lew Finfer, leader of the Massachusetts Communities Action (MCAN) to study a plan and set goals to fight for the immigrant community. 

“The first issue is immigration reform now. And also, equally very important is halting of all deportations, the approval of a law in Massachusetts to grant Drivers’ License to all State residents and raising the minimum wage to $11.00 per hour.”

Salum notes that after that meeting, everyone left convinced that a “Brazilian Movement for Citizenship” was born. “And it is becoming a cause for all Brazilians living in the Diaspora not only here in America but in other countries,” he said.

For Saturday night, the event already has confirmation of some Massachusetts authorities. These include Representative Tom Conroy, Senator Jamie Eldridge, and Senator Karen Spilka. Senator Will Brownsberger will send a representative and the group is still awaiting confirmation from Representative Chris Walsh of Framingham, and Representative Danielle Gregoirie, from Marlborough, among others.

“We ask that everyone bring American flags to express the love and respect we have for the country,” he says.

After this Saturday, the group plans to send two representatives to the U.S. Congress during voting of the Immigration Reform. “We will remain open to dialogue with the U.S. authorities at all levels,” he adds.

The event will begin at 6 PM and end at 10 PM. The program features a lot of music, dance and one hour to dialogue with officials and politicians. “Children will make a lovely presentation representing those who have been deported and each of us with one voice will proclaim ‘I want to stay’ in America” he concludes.

Those interested in participating on Saturday evening or get more information on how to help the Movement you may call, please, (617) 633-9063 or access the website www.iwantstay.com

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If you like more information about this topic, please, call Marcio Mombrini to schedule an interview or you may call directly, please, Rev. Josimar Salum at 774-696-3714 or Rev. Elias Monteiro at (508) 361-3495