About I/RJG

Nearly a dozen years ago, one of the members of Faith Lutheran who had received asylum here in the U.S., began to experience issues with the Department of Homeland Security.  This being one of the delayed consequences of 9/11.  A group of FLC members accompanied and advocated on her behalf as she tried to resolve these difficult matters.  Unfortunately her status was revoked and she chose “voluntary departure” over being deported, with the hope of being able to return.  Subsequently DHS determined that she would never be allowed to come back to her family here in the U.S.  

Witnessing these events, a small group of parishioners began gathering to better inform themselves and the congregation not only of our immigration system but also the difficulties other local immigrant families were facing.  What followed was a series of Adult Forums that had to do with immigration.  Speakers included immigrants, orchardists, lawyers, and other advocates who spoke of the current immigration system.  The group decided to continue meeting to determine how they might be advocates for the immigrant families who have settled in our Upper Valley.  

Below are two documents that give more details as to our three-fold Mission as well as those year to date activities and projects that we have realized in these past years.  This will give the inquirer a sense of what a modest group of passionate and committed individuals can do when working together and networking with other agencies.   Current members of our group include those from Faith Lutheran as well as others from our Leavenworth community.