Immigration Team

Mission of the Ministry:

The Immigration Ministry Team at NC3 attempts to put into practice our call to love the stranger. We refuse to accept the rhetoric that vilifies the undocumented in our communities and denies them the simplest forms of humanity and justice. Instead, as recipients of grace, we seek to expand the conversation, extend compassion, and pursue justice.

INITIATIVES:

Conversation – Unless you are 100% Native American, you have an immigration story. Our team hopes to explore what a Christian response to immigration looks like through events designed to highlight personal stories—events will include: speaker series, movie viewings, and panel discussions.

Compassion – The immigration team is currently a member of the North Side Family Support Network (NSFSN), a group of covenant churches committed to providing financial, legal, and emotional support to families affected by deportation.

Justice – Since our current immigration system is broken, pursuing justice requires systemic change. We currently offer Know Your Rights Trainings, which equip undocumented immigrants with basic information on legal rights and resources that will help them avoid deportation. This fall, we hope to organize around the Federal DREAM Act and other reform initiatives.

How can I get involved?

Leadership Initiatives: We are looking for 1-3 people who have a special interest in immigration and are willing and able to make a more time intensive commitment to our team. These individuals have the potential to become the contact person(s) for the initiatives listed above. Areas of involvement include (but may not be limited to):

  • Attending NSFSN monthly meetings;
  • Planning events that encourage conversation about immigration issues;
  • Researching policy issues and connecting them to the daily needs of our communities; and/or
  • Advocating on behalf of those affected by deportations by mobilizing fellow group members, NSFSN, or other resources to help with practical, emotional, and/or spiritual needs.

Engaged Partners: We are also looking for 10-15 people who will be engaged partners, those committed to joining the conversation. We would love an extended support network of people who will stay connected through:

  • Prayer;
  • Attending events and NC3 group meetings; and/or
  • Offering practical, emotional, and/or spiritual support to those affected by the deportation process.

Ministry Leader Contact

Liz Jansen • 616.634.4907

 

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