Since
its launch in January 2007, the STRANGERS INTO CITIZENS campaign has
been making the case for a one-off regularisation of thousands of
undocumented migrants through a "pathway into citizenship".
The
measure would enable failed asylum seekers and economic migrants who
have lived for many years in Britain and are part of our society to
become legitimate, tax-paying citizens. It has been done elsewhere,
notably in Spain in 2005, and is part of a comprehensive immigration
reform advocated by both Democrats and Republicans in the US.
The measure will benefit the migrants themselves, many of whom are
stuck in a dehumanising limbo. But the main beneficiary will be British
society. Not only will it lead to a bonanza for the Exchequer in unpaid
taxes, but it will shrink the underground economy, and curb further
illegal immigration.
Since organising a rally in May 2007, STRANGERS INTO CITIZENS ‘s call
has led to the adoption of a regularisation policy by the
Liberal-Democrat party, secured the support of dozens of MPs of all
parties – including the de – and the endorsement of the new mayor of
London, Boris Johnson. The progress of the campaign, complete with
links to press coverage, can be read at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strangers_into_Citizens.
On
this site, you can read about the campaign’s detailed proposals, read
the stories of long-term undocumented migrants, see who supports us,
and sign up to receive updates.
We are currently launching an
appeal to finance the next stage of the campaign, which will
include another rally on 4 May next year, following a Mass for
Migrant Workers at Westminster Cathedral. We need large donations
from organisations as well as individual contributions.
We have the policy, the people, the energy, the inspiration and the
will. But we need funds to succeed in restoring the dignity of
thousands – to the benefit of Britain’s society and economy. |