Rep. Juan Vargas Passes Immigration Reform Fast to Rep. Joe Garcia
Washington, DC (December 5, 2013) – Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51), who joined a group of advocates fasting as part of Fast 4 Families: A Call for Immigration Reform and Citizenship, passed his fast to Rep. Joe Garcia (FL-26) today. Rep. Vargas received the immigration reform fast from Rep. Joe Kennedy III (MA-4) yesterday.
“It is an honor to be passing my fast to Rep. Joe Garcia,” said Rep. Vargas. “We must continue to stand together to fix an immigration system that creates second-class citizens and stunts the progress of our immigrant community. The need for immigration reform cannot be ignored.”
“Fast for Families: A Call for Immigration Reform and Citizenship,” was launched by faith, immigrant rights and labor leaders to urge Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Members of Congress, who have been calling on Speaker Boehner to move forward with comprehensive immigration reform, will be passing their fast from one Member to another to express their support for the fasters.
“I am honored to participate in this symbolic event dedicated to the millions of people fighting for comprehensive immigration reform as they seek to keep their families together,” said Rep. Joe Garcia.
“Fasting reminds us that we need to look past our personal needs to seek the greater good,” said Rep. Vargas. “Here, the greater good is very clear; passing humane comprehensive immigration reform will allow the millions of people currently living in the shadows to step out into the light and stop living in fear.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.