Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights

Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of immigrants and refugees in Illinois. The organization was founded in 1998 by a group of community leaders, including Juan Rangel, Maria Elena Avila, and Joshua Hoyt, with the goal of promoting social justice and human rights for immigrant and refugee communities. The coalition works closely with American Civil Liberties Union, National Council of La Raza, and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to advance its mission. The organization is also a member of the National Immigration Law Center and Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles.

● History

The history of the organization dates back to the late 1990s, when a group of community organizers, including Fred Tsao, Sylvia Puente, and Linda Tortolero, came together to address the growing needs of immigrant and refugee communities in Illinois. The organization was formally established in 1998 and has since become a leading voice on immigration policy in the state, working closely with Illinois General Assembly, Chicago City Council, and Cook County Board of Commissioners. The coalition has also collaborated with University of Illinois at Chicago, Northwestern University, and Loyola University Chicago to conduct research and analysis on immigration issues. Additionally, the organization has partnered with Chicago Community Trust, MacArthur Foundation, and Polk Bros. Foundation to support its work.

● Mission and Objectives

The mission of the organization is to promote social justice and human rights for immigrant and refugee communities in Illinois, with a focus on advocacy, community engagement, and policy change. The organization's objectives include promoting comprehensive immigration reform, protecting the rights of undocumented immigrants, and supporting the integration of refugees and asylum seekers into American society. The coalition works closely with National Association of Social Workers, American Psychological Association, and American Bar Association to advance its mission. The organization is also a member of the National Coalition for Immigrant Women's Rights and Refugee Council USA.

● Advocacy and Campaigns

The organization has been involved in several high-profile advocacy campaigns, including the DREAM Act and the Trust Act, which aim to protect the rights of undocumented immigrants and refugees. The coalition has also worked with Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin to promote immigration reform and protect the rights of immigrant and refugee communities. The organization has partnered with Service Employees International Union, AFL-CIO, and National Education Association to support its advocacy work. Additionally, the coalition has collaborated with Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union, and National Organization for Women to advance its mission.

● Community Engagement and Partnerships

The organization has a strong focus on community engagement and has established partnerships with community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, and business leaders across Illinois. The coalition works closely with Chicago Public Schools, City Colleges of Chicago, and Illinois Community College Board to support the education and economic development of immigrant and refugee communities. The organization is also a member of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials and Asian American Justice Center. The coalition has partnered with United Way of Metropolitan Chicago, Chicago Community Trust, and Grand Victoria Foundation to support its community engagement work.

● Policy and Legislative Work

The organization has been involved in several key policy initiatives, including the passage of the Illinois TRUST Act and the Illinois Refugee Resettlement Program. The coalition has worked closely with Illinois State Legislature, U.S. Congress, and White House to promote immigration reform and protect the rights of immigrant and refugee communities. The organization has partnered with National Conference of State Legislatures, National Governors Association, and U.S. Conference of Mayors to support its policy work. Additionally, the coalition has collaborated with Brookings Institution, Urban Institute, and Center for American Progress to conduct research and analysis on immigration policy.

● Notable Achievements and Impact

The organization has achieved several notable successes, including the passage of the Illinois DREAM Act and the establishment of the Illinois Office of New Americans. The coalition has also worked with U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of State, and U.S. Department of Justice to promote immigration reform and protect the rights of immigrant and refugee communities. The organization has partnered with Ford Foundation, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Open Society Foundations to support its work. The coalition's efforts have had a significant impact on the lives of immigrant and refugee communities in Illinois, and have helped to promote social justice and human rights across the state. The organization is also a member of the National Partnership for New Americans and New American Economy. Category:Immigration to the United States