As we step into a new year, VECINA is filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The challenges immigrant communities face have never been more pronounced, but we remain firmly committed to advocating for justice and providing critical legal support to those in need.
With the inauguration behind us, we face a deeply politicized landscape, and attacks on immigrants are front and center in the political rhetoric. At VECINA, however, we are committed to approaching this work from a place of humanity and compassion. Immigration is not a partisan issue—it is a human issue, one that impacts the lives, safety, and dignity of millions of people every day.
A New Mission, A Renewed Vision
With that in mind, we are proud to share our updated Mission and Vision statements. At VECINA, we believe our shared humanity transcends borders. Our new Mission and Vision statements reflect this core belief and will help guide VECINA as we navigate the complexities of immigration law and the challenges that lie ahead.
- Our Mission: At VECINA, our mission is to respond to immigrants’ humanitarian legal needs by equipping immigration justice advocates and immigrants with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system.
- Our Vision: VECINA envisions a society that offers safety, dignity, and justice to all, regardless of immigration status.
These guiding principles are what continue to shape our work and our belief that all people deserve the opportunity to live free from fear and persecution, regardless of where they come from. Despite the current backlash against immigrants in the United States, we know that access to justice, opportunity, and neighborly support are deeply American values. At VECINA, we are working hard to ensure that this vision of America can become a reality.
Confronting an Uncertain Future
Yesterday, a number of executive orders were announced that shake the foundation not only of humanitarian reception in the United States, but strike at the core of what it means to be American. Ranging from the end of birthright citizenship, an indefinite pause on refugee resettlement, and the end of humanitarian parole programs, to the return of “Remain in Mexico,” these changes will have a profound impact on the fabric of American society. This suite of policies creates an atmosphere of hostility, fear, and confusion, and will put American families and communities at risk. More importantly, we know that targeting immigrants within our communities is not a solution to the real hardships that Americans are facing today.
In this time of heightened uncertainty, VECINA is doubling down on our commitment to immigrant communities. We stand resolute in solidarity with our friends and neighbors who will be directly impacted by workplace raids, family separation, and asylum restrictions. The complexities of the U.S. immigration system are daunting, but VECINA will be there every step of the way, equipping immigrants and advocates with the knowledge, tools, and legal support they need to fight for their futures.
Thank You for Your Continued Support
Despite the challenges ahead, we are hopeful. The resilience of immigrant communities and the unwavering spirit of the advocates, volunteers, and partners who stand by them give us strength every day. As we move forward, we will continue to ensure that our work remains rooted in our belief that every individual—regardless of immigration status—deserves to live with dignity and respect.
The road ahead may be fraught with difficulties, but VECINA is ready to meet these challenges head-on. Together, we can create a world where every immigrant has the opportunity to thrive. We cannot do this work without the tireless efforts of our supporters, partners, volunteers, and advocates. Your commitment to justice and your belief in the shared humanity of all people is what enables us to continue our critical work.
Now, our mission and vision are now clearer than ever. Thank you for being a part of the VECINA family and supporting this work as we look toward the future.