Rep. Barbara Hernandez Responds to Venezuelan Migrants Traveling from Texas to Chicago

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, responded to the news that approximately 70 Venezuelan migrants travelled from Texas to Chicago at the direction of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, with this statement:

“It is an honor to welcome migrants who have traveled so far and endured so much to build new lives in our country. Illinois values the contributions of people of all cultures who call our state home. The different backgrounds and varied experiences of our communities are a strength, not a weakness—as some misguided lawmakers have implied.

“I join my colleagues in rejecting Governor Abbott’s abhorrent rhetoric demonizing immigrants. They risked a lot to find safety and opportunity in our country, and I am proud to call them my neighbors.

“I will always stand with the immigrant community, both as a citizen of Aurora and as a lawmaker. My efforts passing legislation that eases the immigrant experience in our state are not done. Underserved communities of every stripe deserve assistance, and I will help provide it.”