The UMC and the Issues 2012: Immigration

            Immigration is a very hot issue right now.  Many Americans feel very torn because America has always prided itself as a land of opportunity that has always been ready to welcome people from all over the world.  After all, most of us are descendants of immigrants.  However, we also acknowledge that we do need to have some system of control at our borders.  The question then becomes whether or not that system is fair and effective.  Another question arises when we realize that many people who are undocumented have been in this country for years, have worked hard, have been otherwise law abiding, have bought homes, built lives, and raised families.  These are complex questions that I cannot answer here.

            The position of the United Methodist Church is less concerned about the legal status of immigrants than about their status and treatment as persons.

We recognize, embrace, and affirm all persons, regardless of country of origin, as members of the family of God. We affirm the right of all persons to equal opportunities for employment, access to housing, health care, education, and freedom from social discrimination. We urge the Church and society to recognize the gifts, contributions, and struggles of those who are immigrants and to advocate for justice for all. (Book of Discipline 2008 Paragraph 162H)

For centuries people have moved across borders in search of work. In our global world this is still a relevant and increasing form of immigration.  Improved wages, better working conditions, and jobs available are reasons for immigration due to work opportunities. Workers from other countries are in many societies an important resource to fill the society’s need of workers. But foreign workers too often meet exploitation, absence of protecting laws, and unreasonable wages and working conditions.  We call upon governments and all employers to ensure for foreign workers the same economic, educational, and social benefits enjoyed by other citizens.  Foreign workers also need a religious fellowship, and we call for the churches to include these in their care and fellowships and to support them in their efforts for better conditions. (Paragraph 163F)

            On the national level, we need to ensure that we have fair and just immigration laws and that those laws are fairly and justly enforced.

            However, as individuals and as the church, we need to welcome and care for all people, including the immigrants among us.