Nomination of Alejandro Mayorkas for Secretary of Homeland Security

Feb. 2, 2021 | 12

The AFL-CIO supported the confirmation of Alejandro Mayorkas to serve as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Mayorkas has a record of public service and understands that real security can only be achieved by respecting fundamental human and labor rights. As DHS secretary, Mayorkas oversees a wide range of functions vital to union efforts to ensure workers’ rights and lift labor standards, including worksite immigration enforcement, work authorization, work visa programs and work permits. The department also makes determinations on relief programs and reviews worker applications for citizenship, DACA, TPS and other types of immigrant and nonimmigrant status. The secretary has an important role in ensuring adequate attention to these functions and preventing immigration enforcement from being used as a weapon against worker organizing. The Senate confirmed Mayorkas’ nomination on Feb. 2, 2021

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