American Immigration Lawyers Association Day Of Action

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (A.I.L.A.) recognizes January 28 as its Day of Action. This day is significant as it highlights the essential role immigrants play in shaping the socio-economic landscape of the United States. Founded on October 14, 1946, A.I.L.A. was initially known as the Association of Immigration and Nationality Lawyers and began with just 19 members in Manhattan, New York. Today, it has expanded to 15,000 members nationwide, including lawyers and educators specializing in immigration law.

Each year, A.I.L.A. organizes the National Day of Action to advocate for improved immigration policies. This event aims to inform Congress about the challenges faced by the immigration system, urging them to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enhance the support structures for immigrants. A.I.L.A. also offers significant pro bono assistance to various individuals, including families, students, and those seeking asylum, reinforcing its commitment as a non-profit organization.

To ensure effective management and communication, A.I.L.A. is structured into 39 chapters and 50 national committees. The National Day of Action, which began in 1996, focuses on enacting legislation that fosters a more efficient immigration system, promotes sustainable benefits for immigrants, and advocates for reforms within the immigration court system to guarantee fair and humane treatment.

Participation in this event is open to both new and experienced immigration law professionals, educators, members of Congress, and other legislative representatives. Given that 14% of the U.S. population comprises immigrants—approximately 45 million individuals—it’s crucial to establish just and inclusive immigration laws.

Key milestones in A.I.L.A.’s history include:

1946: A.I.L.A. is founded in Manhattan by 19 immigration law practitioners.
1987: The American Immigration Law Foundation (A.I.L.F.) is created to provide legal support for immigrants.
1996: The inaugural National Day of Action takes place, advocating for improved immigration laws.
2017: A.I.L.A. grows to over 15,000 members across 38 chapters.

FAQs about Immigration:

What does an immigration lawyer do? They assist with consultation on visa applications, green card processes, and other immigration-related needs.
How many immigration lawyers exist in the U.S.? As of 2022, there are 10,745 immigration attorneys according to the Immigration Lawyers and Attorney Business website.
What types of immigration statuses are there? The main categories include citizens, residents, non-immigrants, and undocumented individuals.

Ways to Observe A.I.L.A. Day of Action:

Educate Yourself: Learn about U.S. immigration laws to better support those in need.
Visit Washington D.C.: Participate in A.I.L.A.’s virtual National Day of Action to gain insights from seasoned immigration law professionals.
Welcome Others: No matter where someone is from, small gestures like sharing a coffee or a smile can make a world of difference.

Five Interesting Facts About Immigration:

Origins: 80% of U.S. immigrants come from Asia or Latin America, including countries like Mexico and India.
Job Creation: Immigrants contribute to job growth by paying taxes.
Crime Rates: States with higher immigrant populations often see lower crime rates.
Innovation: Immigrants bring valuable knowledge that fuels innovation.
Economic Impact: The working immigrant population significantly boosts the U.S. economy, contributing around 10% to the GDP.

Why A.I.L.A. Day of Action Matters:

Promotes Solidarity: It advocates for fair immigration laws to support those who call the U.S. home.
Protects the American Dream: Upholding immigrant rights safeguards the foundational ideals of America.
Cultural Exposure: Welcoming immigrants enriches the cultural tapestry of the nation, allowing all to experience diverse backgrounds.

Upcoming A.I.L.A. Day of Action Dates: