FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 12, 2024

CONTACT:

Yanci Nuñez | ynunez@alianzaamericas.org (773) 638-4278

Rev. Dr. Kenneth D. Phelps
 Senior Pastor, Concord Missionary Baptist |

cmbc6319@gmail.com (773) 363-1377. 

‍Chicago, IL - Alianza Americas, a network of 58 Latin American and Caribbean Immigrant-led organizations, and Concord Baptist Church call on the leadership of city and state governments to protect immigrant children and families. For centuries, civilization has regarded so much respect for places of worship, schools, and hospitals because we find hope, community, and the opportunity to care for each other.

“Nobody is safe under an administration that doesn’t value family or community. The policy preventing agents from making arrests in sensitive locations started in 2011 recognizing the importance of having safe spaces for all families to live and interact without fear,” stated Dulce Guzmán, Executive Director of Alianza Americas. “Children and families have the right to practice their faith, receive an education, and the healthcare they need without fear of their families being torn apart. Local and state governments must take action to protect families now,” concluded Guzmán.

“Every person has the fundamental right to feel safe in their place of worship. Churches are sacred spaces, serving as sanctuaries of refuge, hope, and spiritual renewal for our communities. Our state and local governments, often guided by their own faith, recognize churches' vital role as beacons of hope. Worshippers, including immigrants, should be able to gather and express their faith without fear, interference, or persecution. For people of faith, the church is a place to seek spiritual support, connect with others, and give thanks to our Creator for the blessings in their lives,” said Rev. Dr. Kenneth D. Phelps, Senior Pastor of Concord Missionary Baptist Church and Executive Director of the Concord Community Organization.

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Alianza Americas is the premier transnational advocacy network of Latin American migrant-led organizations working in the United States, across the Americas, and globally to create an inclusive, equitable and sustainable way of life for communities across North, Central and South America.

‍About Concord Missionary Baptist Church and Concord Community Organization:

Under the visionary leadership of Rev. Dr. Kenneth D. Phelps, Concord Missionary Baptist Church and the Concord Community Organization have become pillars of the Chicago community. Together, they are committed to fostering spiritual growth, empowering the community, and advancing racial solidarity and social justice for all.

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