This year’s CLINIC Convening hosted by the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC), from May 29-31, 2024, was marked by insightful discussion, esteemed speakers, and robust participation. Held in the heart of Minneapolis, the event attracted key stakeholders, including government officials and local leaders, all committed to addressing the pressing issue of immigrants’ rights. During the plenary session, we were honored to hear from key government officials who shared their perspective on local immigration policies and reforms. Additionally, the Mayor of Minneapolis, Jacob Frey, graced us with an inspiring speech, reinforcing the city’s commitment to supporting immigrant communities and fostering inclusive policies.

A highlight of this event was that the Religious Immigration Services (RIS) had the opportunity to meet Affiliates during our breakfast and workshop sessions. Our breakfast session was a remarkable gathering, with approximately 50 attendees actively participating. The breakfast provided a platform to answer a broad array of questions related to Religious Worker and Immigration Rights.

Following the breakfast, our workshop titled “Religious Workers Permanent Residency” saw around 45 attendees. This session delved into the specifics of securing and maintaining R1 status and the pathways to permanent residency. The workshop addressed numerous relevant questions from the audience, emphasizing the critical nature of these topics for religious workers seeking stability and security in their service. The valuable insights and questions posed by attendees enriched the discussion and highlighted the ongoing challenges and opportunities in immigration for religious workers. One Affiliate encouraged our work, stating, “I am grateful to CLINIC, I have been an Affiliate for 12 years. Every time we meet, it is like I am attending a family reunion.”

We express our deep appreciation to everyone who attended the breakfast and workshop. Your presence and active participation were instrumental in the success of these sessions.

Attending these workshops offers numerous benefits, including gaining up-to-date information on immigration processes, networking with experts and peers, and accessing resources that can aid in navigating the complex legal landscape. Such gatherings are vital in building a supportive community that can advocate effectively for the rights and needs of immigrants and religious workers. For these reasons, we invite you to mark your calendars and attend CLINIC’s next Convening in San Antonio, Texas, from May 27-29, 2025.

This year’s CLINIC Convening was a testament to the power of collective effort and shared knowledge. We are immensely grateful to all participants for their commitment and engagement. We look forward to your continued involvement and support in our future endeavors.