Today’s immigration ruling ordering the removal of Rigoberto Padilla is a tragedy for him, his family, and our entire community. Rigoberto has lived more than two-thirds of his life in the United States. He is a hard worker, devoted son, committed volunteer, and excellent student. He is someone whom we should be proud to have in our country and our community, and someone whose potential here we should encourage to develop.

Unfortunately, our immigration laws provide no paths for immigrants like Rigoberto to gain legal status. Our immigration system is broken, and as a result Rigoberto’s dreams will be shattered and the Padilla family will be split apart. We call upon ICE and our state’s Congressional delegation to stop Rigoberto’s deportation.

In the meantime, millions of other immigrants like Rigoberto contribute to our economy and society every day. They could further enrich our country if given the opportunity to become full citizens. For their sake, and to move our country forward, our nation must enact immigration reform that offers workable solutions to our broken system.