BRADENTON HERALD

February 19, 2008

Reform backers arrange forum

Immigration advocates to tell what's at stake in upcoming election

By MAURA POSSLEY

With immigration reform part of the red-hot campaign debate, reform advocates have planned a forum this weekend to discuss what's at stake in the election.

"There's been a lot of misinformation and scapegoating of immigrants in response to real concerns that communities have," said Maria Rodriguez, executive director of the Miami-based Florida Immigrant Coalition. "There's been a lot of political posturing, using anti-immigrant sentiment for political motives rather than for good policy."

Rodriguez will be the keynote speaker Saturday at a forum organized by local immigration reform activists dubbed, "Immigration and the 2008 elections: What is at Stake?"

A dialogue about the economy, health care and education is on tap for the day.

Immigration has been a polarizing subject, with some saying immigrants living in the United States illegally drain the economy and take jobs American workers could be doing.

But the advocates organizing this weekend's discussion have a different outlook.

"Given the real issues and the real threats and real concerns that Floridians have around housing and health care and the economy, it's irresponsible for these legislators who are in many cases running for office to devote energy and resources scapegoating workers," Rodriguez said.

A particularly large portion of the immigrant voting block in Florida and nationwide is Hispanic voters. It is part of the electorate that could represent a swing vote, according to a study completed late last year by the Pew Hispanic Center.

"We're hoping it will attract everyone who's interested in hearing about the impact the immigrants . . . have on the next election," said activist Luz Corcuera. "We want to be able to provide facts so that people can make an informed decision before the elections."

Sponsors of the forum include the Latino Community Network, Sarasota Manatee Farmworker Supporters, Hispanic-Latino Coalition and the Office of Peace and Justice of the Diocese of Venice.