We the members of the National Association of Hispanic Priests (ANSH), at our annual convention in Colorado Springs, October 13-17, 2008, issue this statement in support of meeting the needs of immigrants among us. As leaders in the Catholic Church in the U.S. we promote equality among all people regardless of race, color, gender, language, way of life, or nationality.

We support comprehensive immigration reform as outlined in the "Justice for Immigrants Campaign" of the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops. We invite our members to support legislation which provides assistance for immigrants. We also promote comprehensive immigration reform which respects and cultivates the human dignity of all who immigrate into this country.

As an Association:

We will work with local and Immigration and Customs Enforcement authorities in the U.S. to improve the legal process. We invite the members of ANSH to utilize effective means such as education and the preaching ministry among other pastoral activities to promote legislation in favor of immigrants.

We collaborate with other faith communities, civic organizations and other organizations which also work to promote legislation benefiting immigrants. The membership commits itself to support in solidarity those who would benefit from a comprehensive immigration reform. We seek to build bridges with other local communities in our dioceses to promote understanding, peace and reconciliation.

ANSH issues this statement as an expression of our solidarity with our brothers and sisters whose journey of faith we share in our pastoral duties as ministers.