Rallies held across the US for immigration reform bill

As the “Gang of Eight” senators are set to formally introduce their version of the immigration reform bill, demonstrations urging legislators to approve the bill were seen around the country on Tuesday. In front of Capitol Hill in Washington, DC thousands gathered and chanted “Si, se puede!” which means “Yes, we can!” in Spanish.

The Washington, DC demonstration was one of many held around the country. The Associated Press reported that a thousand people marched around the capitol building in Atlanta calling for comprehensive reform. Several demonstrations were held in New York City, with people marching in the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan.

In California, similar marches were seen in San Francisco, Sacramento and San Jose. Protesters also gathered in San Diego around Senator Dianne Feinstein’s office.

While there is widespread support for an immigration reform bill, there are several differences that could delay (or even derail) the process. For example, the number of available visas is a major sticking point. While it is reported that business industry and family advocates have settled their differences regarding the types of visas to be made available, opponents of immigration reform worry about the financial implications for those who currently do not have jobs.

Also, the debate over border security is still a tense one, with many lawmakers (and state representatives) believing that borders are not secure enough to justify reform. Further, there are many legislators who are uncomfortable with the notion of giving what is termed to be amnesty to those who have entered the country illegally.

While immigration reform is being considered for the first time since 2007, there is still much more debate to be had before the bill becomes law.

Source: ABC News.com, Thousands rally across US for immigration bill, April 10, 2013