On October 28, LAMPa Director Tracey DePasquale, the Rev. Andrew Berdahl, and Hunger Advocacy Fellow Daniella Garber joined advocates and lawmakers at the Pennsylvania Capitol for a press conference and to witness the House committee’s passage of legislation establishing an Office of New Pennsylvanians. House Bill 1113, introduced by Rep. Smith-Wade-El and supported by Church World Service, aims to create a permanent office dedicated to supporting new Pennsylvanians moving from out of state, immigrants, and refugees as they build new lives in the Commonwealth. The legislation also calls for the establishment of an advisory committee to guide the office’s work and ensure that the voices of immigrant communities are represented in state decision-making.

Pennsylvania has a long tradition of welcoming immigrants and refugees whose contributions strengthen communities across the commonwealth. Currently, more than one million immigrants call Pennsylvania home, contributing nearly $36 billion in spending power, $2 billion in business income, and $5 billion in state and local taxes annually. At the same time, Pennsylvania faces population decline and an aging workforce. The proposed Office of New Pennsylvanians would held address workforce shortages by supporting economic integration and workforce inclusion. The office would serve as a central hub to help new Pennsylvanians access resources and participate more fully in our communities and economy.

The Rev. Andrew Berdahl of Advent Lutheran Church in York spoke in support of the bill. After the press conference, where several Representatives also voiced their backing, the group attended the committee session to witness the legislation move forward. Reflecting on the experience, Rev. Berdahl shared:

“In a time in our world where things feel uncertain, God’s call to us is certain.  All of the church, not just LAMPA or rostered leaders, are invited to speak and stand in solidarity with all of humanity.  Going to the Capitol to speak in support of HB 1113 and establishing an Office of New Pennsylvanians was such a call to me, and I know many others share this sentiment.  In a time like the present moment, we get to show the church truly cares for the dignity of all people. “

LAMPa continues to advocate for policies that uphold the dignity and welcome of all people. The creation of an Office of New Pennsylvanians would strengthen the state’s ability to coordinate services, reduce barriers to opportunity, and affirm the contributions that immigrants and refugees make to Pennsylvania’s communities and economy.

To learn more about the bill and how you can support it, visit HB1113 on the Pennsylvania General Assembly Website.

For more on the ELCA’s stance on immigration policies, you can read the Social Message on Immigration and the work of ELCA Ammparo. 

 

 

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