Congratulations Srs. JoAnn Persch and Pat M. Murphy

Sisters JoAnn Persch (shown at right) and Pat M. Murphy (left) were honored on April 10 by the Chicago Religious Leadership Network of Latin America (CRLN). Recognized as human rights champions, they were praised for all of their efforts, since opening Su Casa Catholic Worker House in 1990 to keeping vigils at Broadview Detention Center every Friday for the past three years. “Sisters Pat and Joann are truly champions for immigrants and other marginalized communities,” said CRLN representatives. Read more at: http://crln.org/human_rights_champions_remarks

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Immigration Reform Rally in Chicago

Rally for America

with

Senator Richard J. Durbin

Saturday, April 10

Teamsters Local 705

1645 West Jackson Blvd.

Chicago, IL 60612-3276

Arrive 10:00 a.m., Rally 10:30 a.m.;

A celebration of the March 21st Rally in Washington to follow at 11:30a.m.

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Immigration Reform Events Planned for March 21

President Obama issued this statement on immigration reform: “Today (March 11) I met with Senators Schumer and Graham and was pleased to learn of their progress in forging a proposal to fix our broken immigration system. I look forward to reviewing their promising framework, and every American should applaud their efforts to reach across party lines and find common-sense answers to one of our most vexing problems. I also heard from a diverse group of grassroots leaders from around the country about the growing coalition that is working to build momentum for this critical issue. I am optimistic that their efforts will contribute to a favorable climate for moving forward. I told both the senators and the community leaders that my commitment to comprehensive immigration reform is unwavering, and that I will continue to be their partner in this important effort.”

On Sunday, March 21, people throughout the country will stand in solidarity with Ecumenical Advocacy Days, in Washington, D.C., March 19-22, with its focus on comprehensive immigration reform. The Community is urged to find out what is happening locally, and make our Mercy commitment to immigrants known by participating. For instance, a march in Washington, D.C., will be augmented by prayer vigils, marches and programs, while an ecumenical prayer vigil will be held in Omaha. NOW is the time to call attention to the broken immigration system and work to get immigration reform passed!

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Ministry with Immigrants Day a Success!

The event held on Feb. 20, 2010, sponsored by Sisters and Brothers of Immigrants (SBI), was a rousing success. Over 200 brothers, sisters, and associates attended the event held at the beautiful St. Benedict the African Church, and were treated to an interesting and informative day. Sister JoAnn Persch spoke about the history of SBI and why it is important to include immigrants in ministries. Daniel G. Groody, CSC, PhD, gave a talk entitled Crossing the Divide: Foundations of a Theology of Migration.

There was a spirited discussion about the importance of how we label immigrants, migrants and other people coming to this country. Many shared that language was a revolutionary thought to them and that they would take it back to their ministries. Lunch was served, while there were a dozen organizations sharing their ministry. After lunch, a dance troupe from The Julia Center entertained and charmed the audience. The event was attended by many Sisters of Mercy including Sisters Pat A. Murphy, Pat M. Murphy, and Joy Clough, among others.

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REMINDER: Immigrant Rights & American Values Presentation

Dr. Erik Camayd–Freixas will speak at Mount Mercy College on Wednesday, March 10, in the Flaherty Community Room at Basile Hall at 7 p.m. The presentation is free and open to the public. Registration to attend the program is not required.

Dr. Erik served as a federal interpreter at the Waterloo, Iowa, hearings following the May 2008 immigration raid at Agriprocessors, Inc. This experience touched the depths of his heart prompting him to write a report to Congress denouncing the violations of due process and the criminalization of immigrant workers. He will share his reflections on the implications the Postville Raid has and will have on immigrant rights during his presentation.

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Ministry with Immigrants Day

The Sisters and Brothers of Immigrants (SBI)
Presents:

Ministry with Immigrants Day

Saturday,
February 20, 2010
9:15 – 2:30 p.m.

Speaker:  Daniel G. Groody, CSC, University of Notre Dame

Sister JoAnn Persch, RSM will present the History of SBI
Information /Display Tables will offer resources for helping immigrants
Entertainment by: The Julia Center Mexican Folk Dance Class
Lunch

St. Benedict the African Parish
340 W. 66th Street
Chicago, IL  60621
Free parking!

For Religious Sisters, Brothers and their Associates

Sisters and Brothers of Immigrants is committed to becoming a powerful voice that advocates for immigrant justice for those who are often the most vulnerable members of our society. We are committed to holding our government accountable for the rights of all people, especially our immigrant brothers and sisters.

Registration

Name:_________________________________________________________________

Phone/Cell:_________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________________________

Email ______________________________________

Member or Associate of what Community ______________________________

Registration fee $25.00 a person for 1 or 2.     $20.00 per person for 3 or more
Fee payable to:  8th Day Center for Justice  – indicate on check -Ministry Day

Please send form and check to:

Brother Brian McLauchlin, SVD

8th Day Center for Justice

205 West Monroe

Chicago, IL  60606

Questions? Call Brian at 312-641-5151

Deadline for Registration – February 10, 2010

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