House Democrats Reaffirm Support for Ohio's Immigrant Community, Highlight Resources for Public Safety
COLUMBUS – State Reps. Ismail Mohamed (D-Columbus), Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus), Anita Somani (D-Dublin), and Cecil Thomas (D- Cincinnati) today held a press conference at the Ohio Statehouse with community advocates, reaffirming their support for Ohio’s immigrant population and condemning the harmful attacks made by the federal administration and state legislation.
“Immigration is a strength, not a weakness. Our country, our state, and our communities have always been enriched by the contributions of immigrants and refugees,” said Rep. Mohammed. “As these executive orders create fear and division, we must come together and make it clear that we will not let fear define us. We will not let divisive policies like House Bill 26, the ‘Protecting Ohio Communities Act,’ tear our communities apart.”
“Ohioans will stand firm against hateful, divisive, and unconstitutional policies and rhetoric. We are stronger together, and we will continue to build the world we wish to live in—a world where our needs are met, safety is guaranteed, and liberties are honored,” said Rep. Munira.
“As the daughter of immigrants myself, I am appalled with the level of hostility that President Donald Trump has shown toward the immigrant community,” said Rep. Somani. Our top priority as healthcare providers is keeping our patients safe and healthy while also protecting their privacy. Under federal law, we must treat anyone that walks through the doors of an emergency room, a clinic, or a health center regardless of their immigration status.”
Many families and communities are facing serious questions during this difficult time. The following links supply information to the public to help navigate several situations any individual might find themselves in:
- ACLU: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights
- National Immigration Law Center: https://www.nilc.org/resources/?resource_type%5B%5D=know-your-rights
- American Immigration Lawyers Association: https://www.aila.org/
- CRIS Ohio: https://www.crisohio.org/resources/know-your-rights
EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture from the press conference is attached to this press release. Left to Right: Haitian Community Leader Yola Lamarre, State Rep. Ismail Mohamed, State Rep. Anita Somani, State Rep. Cecil Thomas, State Rep. Munira Abdullahi, Our Helpers CEO Dr. Dorothy Hassan, ACLU Ohio Chief Lobbyists Gary Daniels. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.