Immigration Advocacy and the IRTF’s Mission
On Sunday evening, November 7th, we joined the Interreligious Task Force on Central America’s (IRTF) annual Commemoration of the Martyrs and Celebration of Human Rights Defenders across the Americas. The event honored decades of work and highlighted the importance of immigration advocacy.
The program was presented virtually and co‑sponsored by [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-1″]. It included testimonials about the IRTF’s long history. Moreover, it featured reports and interviews on human and environmental rights abuses in Central America. Music and prayers added a thoughtful and reflective tone.
As the program notes explained, the IRTF’s mission includes “organizing for humane and welcoming immigration policies that promote family re‑unification and recognize the right to seek political asylum.” This mission remains central to strong immigration advocacy.
Honoring Human Rights Defenders Across the Americas
The event was coordinated by Ms. Chrissy Stonebraker‑Martinez, IRTF Co‑Coordinator. Additionally, several activists contributed meaningful insights, including Mr. Marc Alvarado, Ms. Pearl Chen, Mr. Brian Stefan‑Szittai, Ms. Rachel DeGolia, and Ms. Melaak Rashid. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Palestine and Venezuela, which added personal depth to her remarks.
Voices Advancing Justice and Community Safety
The speaker lineup was impressive. For example, Ms. Karen Spring from the Honduras Solidarity Network shared updates on regional struggles. Meanwhile, Mr. Reynaldo Dominguez Ramos from the Environmental Committee of the Community of Guapinol described ongoing threats to land and safety. Finally, Ms. Melekte Melaku from the ACLU discussed her work on Ohio Bail Reform.
Together, these voices demonstrated why immigration advocacy remains essential. Their stories showed how human rights, environmental justice, and immigration issues intersect across the Americas.
If you need support with your immigration journey, contact our office for clear guidance.
