No One Is Illegal Vancouver
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April 13, 2009
Dear friends at the Student Christian Movement,
*We are happy to write this letter reaffirming our support for the ongoing efforts in social justice and equality undertaken by the SCM. *
As a group, we place ourselves within the broader anti-colonial and anti-capitalist movement of “No One Is Illegal.” We believe that there are no “illegal” immigrants, only illegal colonial governments founded on colonialism and accompanied by inhumane laws, theft, and projects of cultural and spiritual assimilation and genocide.
As a movement for self-determination that challenges the ideology inherent to immigration controls, we are in full confrontation with Canadian border policies that perpetuate violence, racism, destitution, and exploitation.
No One Is Illegal-Vancouver has often called on our allies especially in faith communities to uphold the principles of status for all and to actively contribute to ensuring that all human beings – regardless of race, citizenship status, gender, age, ability, sexual orientation – are able to live a life free of violence, insecurity, and poverty.
SCM has played a pivotal role in supporting the struggle for migrant justice, particularly by defending the moral tradition of offering sanctuary to those they believe are unfairly facing deportation by the state. SCM has also actively worked to ensure that refugees facing deportations to uncertain futures are able to remain in Canada on humanitarian and compassionate grounds by writing support letters for numerous individuals and families.
Though seemingly small, these efforts are of utmost importance. Our collective energies and dedication to upholding these values have ensured that people have not been forcibly displaced against their will, that families and children have been able to flourish with dignity. *As allies in the movement for self-determination, freedom, and liberation of all oppressed people we offer our warmest thanks for SCM’s commitment to the migrant justice movement and look forward to growing solidarity in the struggle ahead. *
In struggle,
No One Is Illegal – Vancouver
Email: noii-van (at) resist.ca
