Rep. Gutierrez focused particularly on the impact of enlisting state and local police in the enforcement of federal civil immigration law. This situation has been exacerbated by the proliferation of “show me your papers” laws like the anti-immigrant measures adopted in Alabama (HB 56) and Arizona (SB 1070) and by the expansion of federal programs like “287(g)” and “Se Communities.” The following is Rep. Gutierrez’ opening statement, as prepared for delivery: Thank you Chairman Durbin and Ranking Member Graham for inviting me to testify today. I have traveled from coast to coast to visit dozens of cities and communities and to listen to immigrants’ stories. Immigrants everywhere tell me that they are regarded with suspicion. They tell me they are frequently treated differently, because of the way they look, sound or spell their last name. In Alabama, I met 20 year old Martha, a young mother raised in the U.S. One late afternoon while driving she was pulled over…
