Somehow we weathered and witnessed
A nation that isn’t broken
but simply unfinished
There is always light
if only we are brave enough to see it
if only we are brave enough to be it
“The Hill We Climb”
Amanda Gorman, Inaugural Poet
In his Inauguration speech this morning, President Joseph R. Biden proclaimed that today is “A day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve.” He urged us to write a new American story of hope, not fear; of unity, not division; of light, not darkness. To once again be a beacon to the world.
Our country has long been known as a nation of immigrants– a beacon to the world– reflecting not only our diversity, but also a shared belief in liberty, justice, and opportunity. A place of refuge to those fleeing persecution. Just today, Kamala Harris, the daughter of immigrants, was sworn in as the nation’s Vice President.
Throughout the last four years, KIAC has deepened our efforts to work on behalf of immigrants in our community. Despite attempts to limit access to lawful immigration, KIAC persisted in aiding clients in their pathways to citizenship. We helped families reunite through the process of lawful immigration. We fought for asylum for immigrants who left violence and corruption to seek a better life in America. We stepped up to meet the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on immigrant communities. The past four years have challenged us, but also galvanized us to meet the test.
Today, as we celebrate this new chapter in the American story, please know that KIAC is resolved to continue our work on behalf of immigrants. We share the hope and the belief that our nation is not broken, only unfinished.