The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)
By Nicholas Softy
FAIR State & Local Field Representative
We are living in an unprecedented and alarming time. Massive influxes of illegal aliens are streaming into the United States at record rates. During fiscal year 2023, there were more than 3.2 million illegal aliens encountered and according to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas more than 600,000 known gotaways. This is more than all four years of the Trump administration combined. The cost of this record high level of immigration is massive, with illegal immigration costing U.S. taxpayers over $150 billion every single year. In New York State, the estimated 1.1 million illegal aliens and their roughly 372,000 U.S. born children cost N.Y. taxpayers nearly $10 billion per year.
As American citizens, we must promote policies which reduce the negative impact of illegal immigration. The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) has taken on this task by fearlessly advocating for a principled and common-sense approach to immigration reform. For over forty years, FAIR has been tirelessly working on multiple fronts to combat illegal immigration at local, state, and federal levels.
FAIR is working on the frontlines of the immigration debate, and pushing local initiatives with municipal lawmakers and community members to make principled immigration reform a reality. In cities, towns, and counties across the United States, FAIR has been a staunch advocate for the cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. By supporting legislation, educational outreach, and initiatives that allow local stakeholders to work in partnership with federal agencies, FAIR is ensuring that immigration law is upheld at the grassroots level.
FAIR’s work extends beyond local communities to state governments. FAIR works hand-in-hand with state officials and legislators to actively lobby for state-level reforms; of which, prioritize the interests of American citizens. While enacting meaningful change at the state level, FAIR provides solutions to meet the unique needs of individual states. This proactive engagement involves not only drafting legislation, but also providing valuable, up-to-date research to support the arguments of our allies. Through these strategic partnerships, FAIR endeavors to create a more comprehensive approach to immigration policy, one that aligns with the well-being of American citizens and reflects the diverse dynamics of states across the nation.
While local and state initiatives are crucial, federal policies set the framework for the entire nation. On this front, FAIR’s presence on the national stage is evident through its federal advocacy for comprehensive immigration reform, consistent with the principles prioritizing American workers, national security, and the rule of law. FAIR is a vocal champion of border security and advocates for large-scale increases in the funding and resources necessary to secure our borders, support the officers of immigration law enforcement, and remedy America’s broken immigration system.
As the national debate on immigration reform continues, FAIR is at the forefront of advancing policies and legal processes that fight mass uncontrolled immigration, sanctuary cities, and any abuse of our immigration system. FAIR’s advocacy efforts on the local, state, and federal level continue to have a tremendous impact on U.S. immigration policy. While the challenges are significant, FAIR is fearless in the face of hostility, and provides hope for a better future where immigration is conducted in a responsible, legal manner that benefits all Americans.
We invite you to join our Immigration Activist Network. FAIR’s Activist network spans all 50 states and is composed of dedicated individuals who believe that America’s immigration policies should be designed to benefit U.S. citizens and legal residents. There are so many ways to get involved in FAIR’s activist work, like calling or emailing your state, local or federal representatives; attending virtual or in-person strategy meetings; and mobilizing like-minded individuals to attend hearings and rallies in favor of sensible immigration reforms. For more information, go to FAIRUS.ORG or contact me at nsofty@fairus.org.
