Brief History

AILA Day of Action was first observed in 2012 by the American Immigration Lawyers Association, a national organization that represents immigration attorneys and advocates for a just immigration system. The day was created to mobilize members and allies to push for changes to U.S. immigration laws, including protections for undocumented immigrants, improvements to the legal immigration process, and a path to citizenship for those already living in the country. Over the years, the event has grown in significance, becoming a key moment for immigration reform advocacy. AILA Day of Action coincides with lobbying efforts, rallies, and demonstrations aimed at influencing lawmakers to prioritize immigration reform and create a fairer system that protects the rights of immigrants.

How It's Celebrated

On AILA Day of Action, immigration attorneys, activists, and community members take part in a variety of activities to raise awareness and advocate for policy change. This includes lobbying Congress, participating in virtual or in-person rallies, and attending meetings with lawmakers to discuss issues related to immigration reform. Many individuals use this day to share stories of immigrants and the impact of current immigration laws, highlighting the need for reform. Social media plays a key role, with participants using hashtags and posts to amplify their message and encourage others to join the effort. The event also serves as an educational opportunity, with panels, webinars, and town halls offering information on immigration policies and the importance of advocacy.

Immigration Lawyers Association Day of Action

Interesting Facts

• AILA was founded in 1946 and has over 15,000 members, making it the leading legal association for immigration lawyers in the U.S.
• The U.S. immigration system is one of the most complex in the world, with millions of individuals waiting for visa processing or citizenship applications.
• The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which protects undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, has been a central issue in immigration reform debates.
• The United States has a legal immigration system that allows for over 1 million people to become permanent residents each year.
• AILA Day of Action provides a platform for communities to advocate for fair immigration policies and a path to citizenship for undocumented individuals.