Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO – The administration of Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed support for President Joe Biden's recent actions aimed at offering a pathway to legal residency for spouses of U.S. citizens and implementing a work visa program for current DACA enrollees.

In his statement, Mayor Johnson acknowledged the contributions of community partners and advocacy groups, emphasizing the importance of strong families in building robust communities. "By taking this action, the President is making it clear that he believes — as do I — in the importance of keeping families together," said Johnson.

Mayor Johnson also referenced his own recent initiatives, including an Executive Order on the Black Reparations Agenda issued yesterday, and highlighted the upcoming Juneteenth celebrations. He drew parallels to the principles of unity advocated by former Mayor Harold Washington, who established Chicago as a Welcoming City 40 years ago.

"The United States is a nation of immigrants," stated Johnson. "Whether coming through the Great Migration or the Darien Gap, Chicago’s immigrant and migrant communities form the basis of our city's working class."

The mayor reiterated his call for Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform to create a pathway to citizenship for millions who have been disenfranchised. He criticized efforts by former President Donald Trump and Republicans to dehumanize immigrants, arguing that immigrants play a crucial role in growing the economy and securing better lives for their families.

"Immigrants deserve to be treated with dignity, with opportunities for their own future generations to achieve their dreams," asserted Johnson. "No human being is illegal. We are unwavering in our united stance against forces that try to divide us and our fight for justice and opportunity for all Americans."