For more than eight years, C.A.N. activists have been leading the charge in the immigrant rights movement.
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→ In May 2023, Melanie Cruz-Morales, Director of Policy and Advocacy, and Sheila Cruz-Morales, Executive Director, convened a high-level meeting with senior officials of the Biden-Harris Administration in the West Wing of the White House. During this exclusive discussion, the Cruz-Morales twins championed groundbreaking policy initiatives designed to integrate DACA recipients and undocumented immigrants into every sector of American society. Their advocacy aimed to counteract the pervasive xenophobic agenda that continues to marginalize immigrant communities, emphasizing a vision of inclusivity and equity.

→ The C.A.N. team has played a pivotal role in driving and championing policy campaigns that prioritize the needs and rights of immigrant communities, achieving significant legislative successes. These initiatives include securing Drivers' Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants in New Jersey, the passage of the New Jersey Domestic Workers Bill of Rights and the D.C. Domestic Workers Bill of Rights, as well as advancing the NJ Language Access Bill and the Data Disaggregation Bill. Through these efforts, C.A.N. has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering equity and justice for marginalized populations.
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‍→ In October 2022, Sheila Cruz-Morales took a bold and principled stand by addressing President Biden directly, urging him to fulfill his campaign promises on immigration reform. With conviction, she called on the President of the United States to expedite the passage of comprehensive immigration reform that acknowledges and integrates the invaluable contributions of over 12 million undocumented immigrants across the nation.

→ C.A.N. has raised $10,000 through mutual aid, grants, and generous donations to support DACA recipients in renewing their status. This funding safeguards recipients from deportation, enables education, and lawful employment. Please donate to help us continue this initiative.

→ Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Melanie and Sheila Cruz-Morales became prominent advocates in the United States, using their personal stories to raise national awareness and advocate for justice for the undocumented immigrants and essential workers' population, who were disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

→ In May 2020, Melanie and Sheila Cruz-Morales shared their powerful story on The Daily podcast by The New York Times, reaching an audience of over 2 million listeners. They shed light on critical issues faced by undocumented populations, including the fear of deportation, limited access to healthcare, and the unique challenges of quarantine during the pandemic. Through their advocacy, the Cruz-Morales twins called for inclusive healthcare policies regardless of citizenship status and emphasized the urgent need for a pathway to citizenship for all immigrants who played an essential role in sustaining the country during the crisis.
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→ Since the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application was introduced, C.A.N. has organized multiple workshops and individual sessions with immigrant parents and students. These sessions aim to educate participants about the process of completing state aid documents.
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Our key demands include a clear pathway to citizenship for all undocumented immigrants residing in the United States, an end to family separation, and the closure of ICE detention centers. We oppose the construction of divisive and violent walls. Additionally, we assert the right of all individuals to seek asylum and reject policies that criminalize those fleeing violence and persecution. We envision a world where movement is not restricted by artificial boundaries, where all people are free to live and thrive without fear of discrimination or persecution based on their immigration status.

→ Our mentorship program at C.A.N., currently guides and supports a cohort of diverse students through various stages of their educational journey. Whether assisting with college applications or providing ongoing support during their transition to college, our mentors are dedicated to navigating the unique challenges faced by students from marginalized backgrounds, those who are first-generation, and undocumented. Recognizing the profound isolation, barriers, and culture shocks that can be inherent in the college experience for these individuals, we strive to be a steadfast source of motivation, advice, and support.

Our mentors work closely with each student, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment as they navigate the complexities of both college life and student life. Through personalized guidance, we aim to inspire and empower students to overcome challenges, achieve their academic goals, and thrive in their educational pursuits.

→ Currently we are serving 15 students and will announce when we are open for the next college application cycle.

By championing education, we aim to empower individuals to break free from limitations, unlock their full potential, and contribute meaningfully to a society where opportunities are accessible to all.

→ At College Access for Non-Citizens, we firmly believe that education is a powerful tool for liberation, and we are committed to the conviction that every human deserves access to it. We recognize that higher education may not be the path for everyone, we stand firm in the belief that individuals deserve the opportunity to expand their curiosity, ignite their creativity, and pursue their passions through education. We are aware that educational institutions will not save us, but we believe that each and every one of us are entitled to utilize the resources the world offers.

Our advocacy for education stems from the belief that it has the transformative potential to liberate individuals when infused with character. We see education as more than a pathway to degrees—it is a means to cultivate a well-rounded character, fostering intellectual curiosity, creativity, and passion in every learner.

→ On October 18, 2022, Melanie and Sheila Cruz-Morales participated in a significant Pro-Choice event hosted by The White House, recognizing their advocacy for Indigenous and Latina women. The event aimed to bolster President Biden's push for the codification of Roe v. Wade. Standing on stage, Melanie and Sheila championed Indigenous, Black, women of color, trans individuals, and rape survivors as the President addressed the nation following the overturn of Roe v. Wade.
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→ Since then, Melanie and Sheila continue to advocate in strong support for pro-choice abortion ballot initiatives occurring throughout the nation. At C.A.N., they continue to raise awareness on the significance of bodily autonomy and reproductive justice for all human beings, with key focus on the disproportionate violent experience of colonized and racialized women.

We firmly advocate for the fundamental right of individuals to make their own healthcare decisions, including the right to access safe and legal abortion care.  It is imperative to acknowledge that trans men and non-binary individuals also require access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including abortion services. Their experiences and needs must be affirmed and respected within the broader discourse on reproductive rights and justice.

→ In March 2018, Melanie and Sheila organized a protest advocating for gun reform that drew over 1,200 students. Their passionate activism captured the attention of U.S. Senator Cory Booker, who personally invited the Cruz-Morales twins to a crucial meeting to discuss gun reform. During this meeting, they fervently expressed the urgent need for legislation to strengthen gun safety measures, called for a ban on assault rifles, and initiated discussions on essential school policy enhancements for improved student safety.

→ In April 2018, Governor Phil Murphy recognized Melanie and Sheila's advocacy for gun control and student safety at Teaneck High School. Impressed by their leadership, Governor Murphy commended the twins and invited them to the signing event of the Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Bill. At the bill signing, the Cruz-Morales twins advocacy was highlighted by Governor Murphy, before the esteemed members of the New Jersey Legislature. They received a standing ovation in recognition for their outstanding efforts in championing gun control and encouraging positive civic engagement.

The prevalence of gun violence in the U.S. poses a significant threat to public safety and undermines the fundamental right to life and security. Gen-Zers like us have experienced impactful training on school shootings, underscoring the urgent need for change. C.A.N. strongly supports collaborative efforts to implement public safety measures that can protect our communities from the devastating impact of gun violence.