Washington, D.C. – Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today released the following statement after Jeanette Vizguerra, the Denver mother facing deportation to Mexico, was selected among the 2017 TIME 100, the magazine’s annual list of the hundred most influential people in the world:
“We congratulate Jeanette on her selection as one of the most influential people in the world,” Bennet said. “Jeanette is the face of our immigration crisis. Under the threat of deportation, she has remained brave and determined to keep her family together. Her fight represents the fear and uncertainty felt by immigrants across the country. Today’s recognition further emphasizes the need for comprehensive immigration reform to fix our broken system in a way that aligns with our national priorities and values.”
Since 2011, Bennet’s office has worked with Vizguerra to navigate the immigration system. In March, Bennet introduced a private bill for her relief and sent a Congressional letter supporting her U-visa application. Bennet’s office continues to work with her legal team to call for an immediate Stay of Removal decision from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.