Immigration is about human dignity. We have guests in our majestic state who have arrived in many different ways, most of whom are workers and young families who come to Vermont seeking a new or better life. I see them in my practice every day. I believe it’s our duty to respect the humanity of all of our guests and new residents who contribute in a positive way to our community.

 

For years I have cared for the children of migrant families as a proud Puentes de Salud provider. Before medical school, I translated for Spanish speaking asylum speakers in New Jersey detention centers and listened to their stories.

 

It’s clear that we do need major reforms at the national level. Our national ICE and Homeland security reach has gone way too far. They have murdered innocent people. Here in Vermont, we need to protect our communities from such violence. While allowing a path for legal immigrants to move to Vermont and feel safe here, the northern border should be as secure as possible.

 

I support guest worker programs that operate within the boundaries of our national policies, especially in sectors where they are most essential. Industries like technology and agriculture rely on a workforce that can meet seasonal, specialized, or rapidly evolving demands, and guest worker programs help fill those gaps in a structured and lawful way. When these programs are implemented responsibly, they strengthen our economy, support local businesses, and ensure that critical industries have the labor they need to function effectively.

 

I believe in legal migration to the US, I support immigrants positively contributing to our society, and hope it can be less ugly in my kids’ futures.

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