Celebrating Immigrant Strength: AFSC's Historic Hispanic Celebrity Campaign

A Milestone Moment for Immigrant Advocacy

Imagine a campaign that not only celebrates the heart and soul of America's immigrant communities but does so with the vibrant backing of Hispanic celebrities. That's exactly what the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), a Quaker organization with a century-long legacy of advancing peace and justice, has brought to life. Their latest initiative, 'Immigrants Make Our Communities Stronger', is a bilingual, nonpartisan PSA and publicity campaign that's starting conversations and opening hearts.

Voices of Unity & Strength

In an era where the narrative around immigration can be divisive, AFSC's campaign is a breath of fresh air. By enlisting a lineup of trusted voices from entertainment and activism—like Dolores Huerta, Melissa Barrera, Tonatiuh, and Los Tigres Del Norte—this campaign is setting the stage for a powerful dialogue. It's not just about raising awareness; it's about showcasing the undeniable truth that immigrants, particularly Latino immigrants, are indispensable to America's economic growth, social fabric, and cultural vitality.

The Backbone of America

Did you know that nearly half of the U.S. foreign-born workforce is Latino, driving key sectors and responsible for 80% of the labor force growth? Or that Latino immigrants represent 52% of all Latino-owned employer businesses, employing millions nationwide? These aren't just numbers; they're a testament to the resilience, entrepreneurship, and indomitable spirit of immigrant communities. This campaign shines a light on these contributions, reminding us all that immigrants are not a problem to fix but a strength to embrace.

Stories That Inspire

At the heart of AFSC's campaign are the personal stories and testimonies of individuals who have lived the immigrant experience. From Tonatiuh's moving narrative of his mother's journey and perseverance to Melissa Barrera's reflections on the immigrant strength that she witnesses daily, these stories are a powerful reminder of the human aspect of immigration. They remind us that behind every statistic is a story of hope, struggle, and triumph.

A Call to Action

This isn't just a campaign; it's a movement. By sharing their stories, these celebrities and influencers are not just changing the conversation; they're challenging us to look beyond the headlines and see the real impact of immigration on our communities. They're inviting us to stand with them in advocating for more equitable immigration policies and a society that truly recognizes and celebrates the contributions of immigrants.

The AFSC's campaign, coinciding with the culmination of Hispanic Heritage Month and running through the year-end, is a timely reminder of the power of unity, the importance of empathy, and the need for change. It's a call to recognize that immigrants aren't just part of America's story—they are central to its success.

For those of us who believe in a world free of violence, inequality, and oppression, the message is clear: It's time to embrace our immigrant communities for the strength, diversity, and resilience they bring. Let's join AFSC in making this message heard far and wide. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit https://afsc.org/stronger-immigrants.