Call to Action: Celebrate & Organize on International Migrants Day

For Justice & Human Rights

International Migrants Day - December 18

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NNIRR is calling on members, partners and allies to celebrate and organize for justice and human rights on December 18, International Migrants Day. On this day, we will be joining migrants’ rights supporters throughout the world in protest of abuse and discrimination against migrants, as well as in celebration of their lives, dignity and contributions.

[download this poster here.]

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This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the International Convention for the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (MWC). Approved by the United Nations General Assembly on December 18, 1990, the Migrant Workers Convention (MWC) entered into force in 2003; to date, 44 countries have approved the Convention.

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The Migrant Workers Convention is significant in elaborating on human rights protections for all migrants, regardless of their immigration status or citizenship. On this 20^th anniversary, NNIRR will be joining community members and global allies to renew our efforts for universal ratification of the Convention – a task that has grown in urgency with the increase in immigration restrictions and xenophobia in countries around the world.

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Here's how you can celebrate and organize for International Migrants Day with NNIRR:

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1. Let us know about your December 18th event by Tuesday, December 7. Click here and send your event information to agarcia@nnirr.org.

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Include the title, date/time/place, sponsor(s) and public contact information (telephone, email and webpage). NNIRR will send an announcement of nationwide activities to the media and to sister organizations and communities.

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Suggested activities include:

• Media events, statements, press releases
• Community receptions, dinners, cultural programs, film showings
• City resolutions recognizing International Migrants Day
• Protest events at local/state/federal offices against immigration enforcement programs like Secure Communities
• Faith-based events

You may also want to connect with groups in your area to link with activities celebrating International Human Rights Day, Dec. 10^th.

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2. Report rights violations and abuses committed against immigrant and refugee members of your community. Click here for a suggested guideline.

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Please send your report on abuses to lrivas@nnirr.org.

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During the week of December 13-18, NNIRR will share the stories of organizing and report abuses from communities participating in the Human Rights Immigrant Community Action Network, or HURRICANE.

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3. Share a quote from an interview of someone who is reporting an abuse or had their rights violated.

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You can also send a photograph of the abuse or action for justice, a short video or even a news report. Documenting an abuse is organizing for justice and human rights!

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4. Use and share the findings and recommendations of NNIRR's new human rights report, Injustice for All: The rise of the immigration control regime, during your event or celebration.

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You can also share Injustice for All with reporters, elected officials, community groups and leaders, your church or other organizations to discuss what to do to organize for justice and human rights, including demanding socially just immigration reforms.

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Click below for FAQ on December 18 and other key materials:

Resources for Action on International Migrants Day

Key Resources What is International Migrants Day? Get a December 18 resolution passed in your community. December18.net Migrant Rights International International NGO Platform on the Migrant Workers Convention

From the Migrant Workers Convention . Article 7 Protection from discrimination or distinction of any kind on the basis of sex, race, color, language, religion or convictions, political or other opinion, national ethnic or social origin, nationality, age, economic position, property, marital status, birth, or other status. . Article 8 Freedom to leave any country, including your home country, and the right at any time to re-enter your home country. . Article 17 Treatment with humanity and respect for your dignity and cultural identity. Detained migrants are entitled to the same rights as nationals in the same situation. . Article 26 Right to participate in meetings and activities of trade unions. . Article 44 Family reunification and protection of appropriate measures to ensure the protection of the unity of your family. . Article 54 Equal treatment as citizens in protections against dismissal from employment, regardless of legal status. . For more information about the convention, please visit: . Migrant Workers’ Convention ____________________________ No human is undocumented. No human is a minority; and No human is illegal.