Interfaith Pilgrimage for Human Dignity

On Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, Strangers No Longer had an Interfaith Pilgrimage for Human Dignity. Approximately 122 of our members took part in this meaningful event. 

Our aim was to remind elected officials of the importance of welcoming the stranger, while sharing a message rooted in faith and compassion. As people of faith, we called on Senators and Representatives to create safeguards against ICE’s terrorizing acts. Specifically, we:

• Advocated for Senate bills 508, 509, and 510. These bills, introduced in August 2025, have been referred to the Senate Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety, where they are currently awaiting further consideration.
• Invited elected officials to learn more about our Local for Local (L4L) campaign and encouraged them to collaborate with us going forward.
• Delivered a letter to the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police and the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association requesting a future meeting to discuss our Local for Local campaign and our advocacy against 287(g) agreements.

We started our program with an opening prayer, and a presentation by Senator Stephanie Chang who serves on the Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety committees. Senator Chang encouraged us with her support and did an overview of the Bill package. She also introduced us to the Senate during their session. 

Our program also featured a Posada Celebration, a cherished Latin American tradition that commemorates Mary and Joseph’s pilgrimage to Bethlehem as they searched for shelter before the birth of Jesus. This year, Strangers No Longer brought the spirit of Posada and solidarity to Lansing. 

With this spirit of pilgrimage and hope, our group visited several legislative offices, the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, and the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association. During these visits, we distributed materials, including recent statements from Interfaith Leaders such as the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, all highlighting the call to “Welcome the Stranger” and ensure just treatment of immigrants as a core faith value.

Our members Veronica Camarena and Moises personified Mary and Joseph, as we sang the traditional Posada song, and enjoyed lunch together, keeping the spirit of unity and hospitality alive.