ShirLees Happenings Blog

I recently received from my Senator a survey in helping to better understand my stance on many issues that will be addressed and voted upon when the legislature meets. One of the questions asked was if I was familiar with THE UTAH COMPACT and if I was supportive of this compact. I am ashamed to say that I did know about it but I had never read its content to better understand. I felt if I failed to read this then I was certain their were other Utah residents and US citizens who also were not familiar with its content.  I hope this will help us better understand and have compassion for those who are seeking to come to America legally for a better way of life, just like our forefathers did hundreds of years ago. Please read the history of the discovery and colonization of the Americas. Discovery and Colonization of America

THE UTAH COMPACT

A Declaration of Five Principles to Guide
Utah’s Immigration Discussion

FEDERAL SOLUTIONS Immigration is a federal policy issue between the U.S. government and other countries—not Utah and other countries. We urge Utah’s congressional delegation, and others, to lead efforts to strengthen federal laws and protect our national borders. We urge state leaders to adopt reasonable policies addressing immigrants in Utah.

LAW ENFORCEMENT  We respect the rule of law and support law enforcement’s professional judgment and discretion. Local law enforcement resources should focus on criminal activities, not civil violations of federal code.

FAMILIES  Strong families are the foundation of successful communities. We oppose policies that unnecessarily separate families. We champion policies that support families and improve the health, education and well-being of all Utah children.

ECONOMY  Utah is best served by a free-market philosophy that maximizes individual freedom and opportunity. We acknowledge the economic role immigrants play as workers and taxpayers. Utah’s immigration policies must reaffirm our global reputation as a welcoming and business-friendly state.

A FREE SOCIETY  Immigrants are integrated into communities across Utah. We must adopt a humane approach to this reality, reflecting our unique culture, history and spirit of inclusion. The way we treat immigrants will say more about us as a free society and less about our immigrant neighbors. Utah should always be a place that welcomes people of goodwill.