Faithful Leaders & Arizonans Open Letter Opposing HCR 2060 and SB1070 2.0 Bills

Open Letter from Faith Leaders and Arizona Community

Opposing HCR 2060 and SB1070 2.0 Bills (House Bill 2748, SB 1231)

 

Dear Senate and House Members:


We, the undersigned members and representatives of diverse faith communities across Arizona, are writing to express our deep concern and strong opposition to the anti-immigration bills currently under consideration in the state legislature, specifically HCR2060 ("Secure the Border Act" along with any other SB1070 2.0 bills). This referral, if passed, would not only severely impact immigrant families but also negatively affect our state's economy, schools, small businesses, and overall community well-being.


As people of faith, we believe in the dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of their immigration status. We are called to welcome the stranger, care for the vulnerable, and seek justice for all. However, “Secure the Border Act” and related legislation directly contravene these sacred principles, perpetuating a climate of fear and hostility that threatens the well-being of our neighbors, friends, and fellow human beings.


We are also aware of efforts to expedite this process by moving this referral directly to the ballot in November. We believe this strategy undermines comprehensive debate and consideration, which are essential for such impactful legislation. As such, we oppose any attempt to bypass the legislative process in this manner. We urge you to hear the Bishops of the Arizona Catholic Conference statement that denounced SB1231, which as a policy matter is now again memorialized in this referral.


Immigrants are vital to Arizona's economy, contributing significantly across various industries. This referral would foster an environment of fear and distrust, leading to family separations and eroding community trust. Additionally, our schools and educational institutions would face severe disruptions. Churches and other religious institutions, which often serve as community gathering places and utilize public buildings, would also be negatively impacted. These disruptions could undermine our ability to offer essential services and support to our congregations and communities. Many families within our communities are of mixed status, with detrimental effects extending to U.S. citizens, particularly children enrolled in our schools.


Small businesses, the backbone of our economy, would also suffer. Immigrant-owned businesses, which contribute significantly to our local economy, would face obstacles that hinder their ability to thrive.


The proposed HCR2060 includes measures that are not only unconstitutional but also preempted by federal law. It revives and amplifies harmful policies reminiscent of SB1070 and Texas's SB4, risking increased harassment and wrongful detentions by local law enforcement, especially among communities of color. Enforcing such policies would cost cities a ton of money, as the need for additional personnel, legal defenses, and other resources would significantly strain local budgets. Additionally, these measures could lead to skyrocketing legal costs, exacerbate worker shortages, and drive businesses and residents away from our state.


As representatives of diverse faith traditions, we urge you to oppose these anti-immigrant bills and reject any efforts to prematurely place them on the November ballot. Instead, we encourage you to work towards comprehensive immigration reform that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals. We stand ready to collaborate with you to develop solutions that are humane, just, and compassionate.


Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter.


Sincerely,

? Take future action with a single click.
Log in or  Sign up for FastAction

Contact Information
Additional Information