Immigrants' Day at the Capitol! Si se pudo!

Chants of “Yes We Can” rang out in 6 different languages as 150 immigrants and allies marched around the Legislative Building with signs that read “Invest in our Future, Invest in Citizenship” and “Protect the Washington New Americans Program.” Legislative day participants traveled from as far away as Whidbey Island, Mount Vernon, Mattawa, Shelton, Vancouver, and Seattle to attend the workshops, march, and meetings. In the morning, the crowd warmly welcomed Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown who spoke on immigrants’ economic contributions to the state and the moral imperative to work on issues that impact immigrants. Senator Brown announced, “Because Washington New Americans is such a critical program, I will do everything in my power to ensure that it remains in the budget and can continue to help immigrants in their pursuit of the American Dream.” (Watch her full speech below)

Groups met with 90 legislators or their aides to advocate for the Washington New Americans Program and medical interpretation funding. They also encouraged their legislators to explore revenue packages that ensure that these and many critical programs are restored. In meetings, participants talked about the importance of citizenship in reaching the American Dream, gaining the right to vote, and having the ability to travel more freely. Almost every attendee had a story about the importance of medical interpreters and their experience in seeking care without an interpreter or interpreting for sick or injured family members or co-workers.

At the end of the day attendees discussed the power of telling “real stories” and sharing their experiences with their elected officials.  One attendee reflected after meeting her Senator: “It is my first time doing something like this. I am 62 years old. I am so happy.” Another attendee, Miguel Angel Gaitan, summed up the day by saying: “Legislators make laws that may benefit us or may hurt us, but [now] we know where the laws are made. We have to go back to our neighborhoods and share our experiences. The things that we desire, we deserve and it so important to ask for them. We are strong, and in unity we have power. Today we can say si se pudo (yes we did)!”

If you were unable to attend Immigrants Day at the Capitol you can still take action.

Call 1- 800-562-6000 and ask your legislator to support immigrant families by supporting Washington New Americans and Medical Interpreter funding.