seattlepi.com
An initiative aimed at halting voting rights and other benefits to illegal aliens in Washington was derided last night as an "anti-immigrant" movement that threatens the "soul of America."
Initiative 343 is part of a national effort to make immigrants a scapegoat by those uncomfortable with diversity, said Eric Ward, a field director of the Center for New Communities in Chicago, a faith-based organization that seeks social and economic justice.
He spoke at a briefing sponsored by more than 40 immigrant, ethnic, human rights, social service and labor groups. About 75 people of various races and ethnicities attended the meeting at NewHolly Hall in Rainier Valley.
Among other requirements, I-343 would mandate that a voter supply proof of citizenship, a telephone number, occupation and former residence.
Agencies that administer public health benefits would have to verify a voter's eligibility for benefits and report immigration-law violations.
To qualify for the 2006 ballot, the initiative needs 224,880 valid signatures by Dec. 30.
Posted by katie at July 22, 2005