Support & Vote YES on WISE Act to Protect Immigrant Survivors of Violence

Today I take pen in hand to write and urge you to support and/or co-sponsor the WISE Act recently introduced. It stands for Working for Immigrant Safety and Empowerment. The WISE Act is crucial legislation that would provide vital protections for immigrant survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and gender-based violence. There have been incidents in all 50 states, and are too numerous to detail here. However, this bill would ensure that immigrants have access to important protections intended by the bipartisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Trafficking Victim Protection Act (TVPA), and other federal and state laws. I don’t need to remind you that immigrant populations are vulnerable and increasingly under attack in this Republican administration of incredibly cruel and barbaric cabinet members in DHS and others. Individuals and whole communities often face immense barriers to seeking help or reporting abuse due to fears of deportation or retaliation. This bill takes important steps to foster safe communities by prohibiting the detention or deportation of survivors before their cases are fully adjudicated. The WISE Act expands access to support services like housing, healthcare, and financial assistance that can help survivors escape abuse and rebuild their lives safely. No one should be forced to remain in a dangerous situation because of their immigration status. Protecting all survivors regardless of immigration status upholds human rights and ensures justice. Passing the WISE Act is an essential step towards prioritizing the wellbeing and security of this vulnerable population. Thank you for your attention to this serious matter.