Jan 29, 2013
Equality NC Responds: President’s Immigration Reform Proposal Calls for Equal Treatment for Bi-national Same-Sex Couples
In his remarks on immigration reform, President Obama told the Nevada crowd, "The story of immigrants in America isn't a story of 'Them," it's a story of 'Us.' It's who we are."
On Tuesday, in conjunction with a speech on immigration reform in Las Vegas, President Obama released the outline of his comprehensive immigration reform proposal.
The President’s remarks, outlining key themes from the proposal, included the importance of keeping all families together and specifically call for equal treatment for bi-national same-sex couples.
The text of White House’s proposal follows: FACT SHEET: Fixing our Broken Immigration System so Everyone Plays by the Rules.
Earlier in the day, taking a question about extending immigration benefits for same-sex couples, White House Press Secretary Jay Carney reaffirmed the President’s support for equal treatment:
“The President believes that it should be included and that should come as no surprise. As we've said all along, this is consistent with the principles he has laid out over the last four years. And the President has long believed that Americans with same-sex partners from other countries should not be faced with the painful choice between staying with the person they love or staying in the country they love.”
“Every day, we’re confronted with stories of bi-national, same-sex couples who are separated by the laws of the country they call home,” said Stuart Campbell, executive director of Equality NC in a statement of support. “We applaud President Obama’s efforts to provide a pathway to citizenship for these loving, committed couples and their families, and urge all fair-minded North Carolinians to stand as one in support of comprehensive reforms that help all communities harmed by our broken immigration system.”