UPDATE: In a powerful presentation on immigration challenges, attorney Antonio Massa Viana captivated an audience of approximately 50 local residents at The Southfield Church in New Marlborough this past Saturday. Viana, who made headlines as the first unauthorized immigrant to pass the Massachusetts bar exam, spoke urgently about the current immigration crisis and the need for reform.
Viana’s personal journey is striking. After moving to the U.S. from Brazil at age 12, he lived without legal status for 20 years before finally obtaining citizenship in 2021. His experience fuels his commitment to supporting undocumented immigrants, whom he describes as facing “everyday fears and mounting challenges.”
During his hour-long presentation, he outlined the staggering statistics: around 11 to 14 million undocumented individuals reside in the U.S., with many waiting over a decade for asylum interviews. He highlighted that the current administration’s policies are exacerbating these struggles, stating, “The government is processing forms for family-based immigration for a sibling of a U.S. citizen from 2001.”
Viana passionately debunked myths surrounding immigration, emphasizing that undocumented workers contribute significantly to the economy, paying $96.7 billion in taxes in 2022. He criticized the misconception that deporting immigrants would boost job availability, asserting, “We would lose 2.6 million jobs if we got rid of undocumented immigrants.”
The event was organized by the New Marlborough Town Library and The Southfield Church, reflecting a community’s urgent need for knowledge and advocacy. Viana’s insights are particularly timely as Massachusetts considers critical immigration reform legislation through groups like the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA).
Viana urged attendees to recognize the broader implications of current policies, warning, “What’s happening to immigrants today could happen to citizens tomorrow.” He encouraged action and solidarity, advocating for the Dignity Act and urging everyone to become allies for undocumented individuals.
As the immigration debate intensifies nationally, Viana’s message resonates deeply with those affected by ongoing policy changes. His firm, Massa Viana Law, remains dedicated to providing compassionate legal representation and guidance for immigrants navigating these turbulent times.
This presentation is a call to action for residents, emphasizing the importance of understanding immigration issues and supporting local advocacy efforts. As Viana concluded, “This is our home. We can’t lose hope.”
For more information on how to get involved, residents can reach out to local organizations such as the Berkshire Alliance to Support the Immigrant Community (BASIC) and the Berkshire Immigrant Center (BIC).
Stay informed as these developments unfold and learn how you can make a difference in your community.
