Pro-immigration reform group names seven lawmakers to ‘Heroes’ list

Two of New York's most prominent leaders, Sen. Charles Schumer (D) and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, an Independent, are among the Immigrants' List Top 10 "Heroes" of 2012 list.

In all, seven lawmakers made the list released by the Immigrants' List political action committee honoring those who have contributed to the push for immigration reform.

The list, released on Thursday, also included Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-Ill.), Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Rashida Tlaib, Randy Parraz and Nan Orrock, three "local" heroes.

Immigrants' List also listed 10 lawmakers for its biannual "Hall of Shame" list released in April 2011. 

In its "Heroes" ranking, Immigrants' List said those selected "have embraced solutions instead of obstructionism, compassion instead of hatred and facts instead of misinformation."

"The issue of immigration reform has not left the national conversation. In fact, it has become a crucial part of this campaign season,” said Immigrants' List board member Ted Ruthizer in a statement. 

Ruthizer said that everyone who made the "Heroes" list was strongly committed to immigration reform. 

According to the PAC’s website, it is primarily focused on overturning an immigration law that bans anyone caught living in the United States illegally from returning to the country legally for periods ranging from three to 10 years. The PAC also aims for the government to give the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security the ability to decide when to imprison and release "permanent residents who have committed a criminal offense." 

"What makes these honorees stand out is their conviction — the fact that they strive to do what is right, no matter the political consequences," said Ruthizer. 

Ruthizer also praised Murkowski for supporting the DREAM Act, which would grant some undocumented immigrants permanent U.S. residency based on a number of conditions. 

"Look at a leader like Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), who held her ground by supporting the DREAM Act even after other Republicans flip-flopped to oppose it," Ruthizer continued. "These are leaders worth recognizing. We are grateful for their work, and excited to honor their achievements."

The group praised both Schumer and Bloomberg for their efforts to make it easier for immigrants to stay in the U.S. It said Bloomberg has been "America's single most prominent advocate for immigration" and Schumer "a leader for immigration reform," convincing a number of his Republican colleagues to back reform. 

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