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Emigration and immigration

South Omaha Rally Showcases Support for Immigrants and Refugees

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Dozens of community members and local organizations gathered in South Omaha's Latino-dominated commercial corridor to show their support for immigrants and refugees, calling on Nebraska's congressional delegation to push for immigration reform. The rally, organized by Omaha Together One Community (OTOC), was a show of solidarity with immigrants and refugees, who are facing increasing challenges under the Trump administration's hardline immigration policies. Speakers from various organizations, including labor, business, agriculture, and faith groups, emphasized the benefits of immigration reform for Nebraska's economy, workforce, and growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 60 organizations participated in the rally, including the Nebraska AFL-CIO labor union, Nebraska Farmers Union, and Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, highlighting the importance of immigration reform for the state's economy and workforce.
  • Speakers from various organizations emphasized the benefits of immigration reform, including its positive impact on Nebraska's economy, workforce, and growth.
  • James Krenz, senior program director for the International Council for Refugees and Immigrants, stated that admissions for refugees are effectively suspended under the Trump administration.
  • Heath Mello, president of the Greater Omaha Chamber, noted that his members hear daily from employers struggling to fill jobs, highlighting the urgent need for immigration reform.
  • Sue Martin, president of the Nebraska AFL-CIO, emphasized that without immigrants, America's workforce would shrink, resulting in decreased tax revenue.
  • John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, stated that Nebraska's largest single industry, agriculture, struggles with workforce issues and is dependent on immigrant labor.
  • Mustafa Babak, cofounder of the Afghan American Foundation, Rev. Debra McKnight, founding pastor of Urban Abbey, and Dawn Essink of OTOC were among the speakers who emphasized the importance of supporting immigrants and refugees.

Statistics:

  • Over 60 organizations participated in the rally.
  • Dozens pack la Plaza de la Raza in South Omaha during the rally.
  • 10 speakers addressed the rally, representing business, labor, agriculture, faith, and community groups.
  • 4 months have passed since President Trump's executive orders and non-renewals of Temporary Protective Status have affected people's lives nationally and in Nebraska.
  • Nebraska's largest single industry, agriculture, is dependent on immigrant labor.

Sources:

  • Nebraska Examiner
  • Omaha Together One Community (OTOC)
  • International Council for Refugees and Immigrants
  • Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce
  • Nebraska AFL-CIO labor union
  • Nebraska Farmers Union

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