MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following President Trump’s call-to-action and redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), the House Appropriations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee delivered a joint report on the persecution of Christians in Nigeria to the White House. The findings follow a comprehensive investigation that included interviews with expert witnesses, a hearing and roundtable, two on-the-ground assessments through bipartisan congressional delegations to Nigeria, and close partnership with the Trump Administration. 

Nigeria has become the most dangerous place in the world to practice the Christian faith, as jihadist networks exploit weak enforcement and limited accountability to carry out sustained and coordinated violence against civilians. Committee members witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences for innocent communities, regional stability, and U.S. national security interests. The report makes clear that failure to confront these threats only emboldens terrorist actors and accelerates further violence – underscoring that protecting religious freedom and countering extremism require clear red lines, real accountability, and decisive leadership. Thanks to President Trump’s efforts since returning to the White House, and attention from Congress, there is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for real change to address this two-decades-long crisis.

Investigators on both committees recommend these actionable steps to align with President Trump’s efforts from the White House:

• Strike a bilateral agreement between the United States and the Government of Nigeria to protect vulnerable Christian communities, eliminate jihadist terror activity, further economic cooperation, and counter adversaries in the region.
• Implement the FY26 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2026, which withholds funding to the Government of Nigeria until action is taken to stop violence against Christians.
• Invoke and publicly announce the CPC Presidential Directives to name and shame perpetrators of violence.
• Implement sanctions on groups and individuals who participate in, or tolerate, violence against Christians.
• Continue visa restrictions for perpetrators involved in Christian violence and violations of religious freedom.
• Demand the repeal of sharia codes and criminal anti-blasphemy laws.
• Review and use points of leverage to compel Fulani herdsmen to disarm, including by blocking export of beef and other cattle-related products. 

Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL) said, “During my official travel to Nigeria, I heard directly from witnesses and experts about the horrific violence being carried out against Christians. No one should face persecution or death for practicing their faith. President Trump’s America First foreign policy makes clear that defending fundamental freedoms, including religious liberty, is a core U.S. priority at home and abroad. I am proud to aid in that mission through the FY26 National Security and Department of State legislation, which withholds assistance to the Government of Nigeria until action is taken to stop these atrocities. We must stand with vulnerable communities, including Christian communities, and ensure those responsible for this violence are held accountable.”

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) said, “Liberty continues when strength stands guard. The freedom to worship is not a fleeting ideal, it is a cornerstone of America. From U.S. beginnings, our shores drew those seeking to pray without fear, and that promise must endure. So, though oceans stand between us, the call to protect faith and humanity does not fade with distance. President Trump made that clear when taking decisive action in Nigeria while simultaneously tasking us to deliver a report on further actions to protect persecuted Christians. I commend the work of our Vice Chair and NSRP Chairman Mario Díaz-Balart, Rep. Riley Moore, and our committee members in leading efforts to stop extremism and systemic violence against innocent people. Our joint report focuses on defending lives, upholding religious liberty, and stopping terrorists. We affirm a necessary duality, no matter where we are: we defend U.S. principles by enforcing security. We protect faith by dismantling terror. And we recognize that a world where believers are safe is not achieved through hope alone – it is secured through vigilance that deters evil, confronts violence, and stands watch so prayer is never left undefended.”

Legislative Branch Subcommittee Vice Chair Riley Moore (R-WV) said,“Following today’s productive meeting at the White House, I want to thank President Trump for redesignating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern and for his Administration’s commitment to protecting our brothers and sisters in Christ from persecution and addressing the broader security challenges plaguing Nigeria. Since President Trump redesignated Nigeria as a CPC and tasked me to lead a Congressional investigation, I have worked diligently with my colleagues to produce the report we presented today. I also want to thank House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, Vice Chair Mario Diaz-Balart, Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, and Congressman Chris Smith for their leadership on this comprehensive investigation and delivering this report to the White House. I traveled on a bipartisan delegation to Nigeria and saw with my own eyes the horrific atrocities Christians face, and the instability the Nigerian government must combat. Through Congressional hearings, expert testimony, meeting with Internally Displaced People, hearing from religious leaders, and engaging with high-level Nigerian government officials, we have provided a clear picture of the threat environment in Nigeria and the horrific persecution Christians face. This report outlines concrete steps to impose accountability measures, counter radical Islamic terrorism, and lays out a plan to work in coordination and cooperation with the Nigerian government to bring security to all the people of Nigeria. Our brothers and sisters in Christ have suffered in silence for too long. The world is now watching, and I urge the Nigerian government to take the opportunity to deepen and strengthen its relationship with the United States. Doing so is in the interest of both our great nations. Together, we must address these pressing security challenges and bring an end to violence against Christians.”
 
Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman and Values Action Team Chair Robert Aderholt (R-AL) said, “Religious freedom is not simply an American value; it is a universal right rooted in the dignity of every human being. President Reagan quoted the Bible when he spoke about America as a ‘shining city on a hill,’ a beacon of hope for those yearning to live and worship freely. That light must continue to shine for persecuted believers around the world. The violence against Christians in Nigeria and elsewhere demands more than concern, it requires steadfast action. I am grateful for Chairman Cole’s leadership and for the diligent work of our colleagues in producing this report, which outlines meaningful steps to confront extremism and protect vulnerable communities. When we defend religious liberty abroad, we reaffirm the principles that make our nation that shining city, strong, faithful, and unafraid to stand for what is right.”

Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Vice Chair Scott Franklin (R-FL) said,“During our visit to Nigeria, I saw firsthand the devastating impact of religious persecution on Christian communities. Religious freedom is a fundamental human right, and no one should live in fear for practicing their faith. Congress has a responsibility to ensure strong oversight and real accountability. The United States must continue standing for religious liberty and confronting extremist violence wherever it occurs.”
 
Homeland Security Vice Chair Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) said, “Last December, I traveled to Nigeria with a bipartisan group of members of Congress and saw firsthand the devastating toll that targeted violence and religious persecution have taken on Christian communities. Families are living in fear, and extremist networks are exploiting instability with little accountability. The joint report now being delivered to the White House makes clear that the status quo is unacceptable. Protecting religious freedom and confronting terrorism requires decisive leadership and real consequences. With President Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, we have a critical opportunity to bring meaningful change to a crisis that has gone on for far too long.”

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast (R-FL) said, The U.S. will not turn a blind eye to Christian persecution. This report shows the unrelenting plight Christians have faced for years in Nigeria. Thanks to President Trump, America is paying greater attention to this issue and leading with strength to protect religious freedom throughout the globe.” 
 
House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa Chairman Chris Smith (R-NJ) said, “President Trump’s bold and well-founded redesignation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ was not just a declaration – it was a directive. For nearly twenty years, the Nigerian government has been complicit in and complacent about the violent religious persecution occurring within its borders. By failing to punish and prosecute the Islamist extremists who wantonly rape, torture, and murder Christians and non-radical Muslims in their country, the Nigerian government has only emboldened these terrorist thugs to inflict even more suffering. This joint report – requested by President Trump and compiled by the House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees – is a critical tool for helping the Nigerian government to help its own people. This report provides comprehensive recommendations for the United States to follow throughout its efforts to curb the religious violence in Nigeria, ranging from bilateral agreements to economic sanctions. It is well past time that we dismantle the culture of denial surrounding the religious persecution in Nigeria – and this report provides the proper tools to do so.”

This joint effort from the Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees underscores the grave importance placed on this issue by both Congress and President Trump. Religious freedom is a founding principle of the United States of America, and House Republicans remain committed to protecting vulnerable religious communities around the world.

Read the report here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Virginia Tech, based in Blacksburg, Virginia, two grants totaling $844,824. The funding supports biological chemistry research. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“Outstanding Investigator Awards support American researchers and institutions.

“These HHS Outstanding Investigator Awards for more than $844,000 help Virginia Tech pursue complex biological research projects.”

BACKGROUND

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Outstanding Investigator Awards provide support for an investigator’s research program or lab rather than individual research projects.

The HHS office responsible for these grants is the National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

On February 19, Congressman Griffith announced a separate Outstanding Investigator Award to Virginia Tech for $419,741.

As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Griffith serves as the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05)

Today, Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) commended President Donald Trump for designating February 23 as Angel Families Day, honoring the American families whose loved ones were killed by criminal illegal aliens.

For years, Congressman Biggs has stood alongside Angel Families in their pursuit of justice and accountability. Grant’s Law, legislation named in honor of Grant Ronnebeck, a 21-year-old Arizonan who was murdered by an illegal alien, was one of the first bills he introduced when taking office in 2017, and he has reintroduced it each session since. The bill seeks to ensure that criminal illegal aliens are detained and deported, not released back into American communities.

Congressman Biggs has also worked closely with Arizona Angel Family members like Steve Ronnebeck, Grant Ronnebeck’s father, and Mary Ann Mendoza, whose son Sergeant Brandon Mendoza was killed by an illegal alien driving under the influence. Their advocacy has been instrumental in elevating the human cost of open-border policies and pushing for meaningful reform.

Congressman Biggs remains committed to advancing policies that restore the rule of law, protect Arizona communities, and prevent other families from enduring similar tragedies.

“Angel Families Day is a solemn reminder that border security is not a political talking point—it is a matter of life and death,” said Congressman Biggs. “I commend President Trump and the White House for recognizing these families and honoring the memory of the Americans we have lost, and I extend my deepest condolences to all those affected by crimes committed by illegal aliens.

“We must permanently secure our border, enforce our laws, and ensure that criminal illegal aliens are detained and deported. The safety of American citizens must always come first.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

WASHINGTON, DC [2/23/26] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.

The competition is open to any student in grades 9-12 who lives in Oregon’s First Congressional District, which includes large portions of Washington and Multnomah counties, and all of Tillamook, Clatsop, and Columbia counties. A panel of local arts leaders will select the winning student artist, whose artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. All students who participate in the competition will be invited to a reception with the Congresswoman during which the winner will be announced and all submissions will be on display.

“As a supporter of well-rounded education that includes the arts, I always appreciate the Congressional Art Competition and the creativity of local high school students,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “I am honored to give students a platform to show their talent, and I encourage all high school students to participate. I look forward to seeing what they create and what they convey through their art.”

Students interested in submitting artwork can find more information here. The deadline for art submissions is Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. Art may be mailed to the Beaverton office at 12725 SW Millikan Way, STE 220, Beaverton, OR 97005. Participants may also call 503-469-6010 to arrange an appointment to drop off in-person. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

Chicago Congressman opts to skip presidential address, will join Indivisible Barrington’s virtual town hall instead.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

 U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (NE-03) and Mike Flood (NE-01) joined their colleagues on the Congressional FFA Caucus in introducing a resolution to designate February 21-28 as National FFA Week. The resolution was led by the Congressional FFA Caucus co-chairs, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Since 1928, Nebraska FFA has helped shape our state’s next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping young people with the skills, experience, and passion needed to feed and fuel our world. I am proud to cosponsor this year’s National FFA Week resolution and join members across the country in celebrating the extraordinary work of the National FFA Organization. With dedicated young leaders like these stepping forward, I have no doubt the future of American agriculture is bright,” said Smith.  

“FFA is raising up the next generation of ag and community leaders here in Nebraska and all across the country. Their work is making a huge difference. This week, Congress salutes the FFA chapters in every corner of America that are teaching young leaders the skills they need to be civically engaged and to take the great paying jobs available in our ag economy,”said Flood. 
 
“Happy National FFA Week! Nebraska FFA is building the talent pipeline that keeps our state strong. By combining classroom learning with real-world application in agriculture, agribusiness, and advancing technologies, FFA equips students with the career readiness skills employers need and communities depend on. I commend the over 12,900 dedicated Nebraska members, advisors, and educators who invest their time and talent to ensure a bright future for our state,”said Nebraska State FFA Advisor Sarah Heideman. 

“National FFA Week is a time when we showcase the collective impact of FFA nationwide. Throughout FFA, we see our members stepping up as leaders, innovators, and advocates for agriculture. We know this happens, thanks to the dedication of agricultural teachers, FFA Alumni & Supporters, and our many partners. This week, National FFA Week, is when we celebrate the collective agricultural education ecosystem,”said National FFA Advisor Dr. Travis Park. 
 
Click here for the text of the resolution.

BACKGROUND:

The National FFA Organization is a congressionally chartered school-based national youth leadership organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,400 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Congressional FFA Caucus works to raise the profile of school-based agricultural education and FFA while developing relationships between Congress and the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA), co-sponsored a resolution to designate February 21-28, 2026 as National FFA (Future Farmers of America) Week.

The bipartisan, bicameral legislation is led by U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), co-chairs of the Congressional FFA Caucus. U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. 

“I worked on my family’s farm as a kid growing up in Western Pennsylvania. Today, agriculture continues to be one of Pennsylvania’s top industries, from dairy to livestock to row crops, and more,” said Rep. Kelly. “Generations of young farmers have participated in the FFA. It’s important that we recognize the hard work and sacrifice local farm families make to put food on our tables each and every day.”

“Happy National FFA Week,” said Rep. Mann. “This week, more than one million FFA members will reflect on the impact of the National FFA Organization and its role in shaping the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture. Those of us who have had the honor of wearing the blue jacket understand the lasting impact FFA has on molding and equipping young leaders to succeed. Across the country, FFA members will fulfill our motto—‘Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, and Living to Serve’— through service projects, educational showcases, and engagement in their communities. As a past chapter FFA officer from Quinter, Kansas, proud FFA alumnus, and founder of the Congressional FFA Caucus, I’m honored to introduce this resolution.”

“Our nation is yearning and ready for the next generation of young farmers, ranchers, and producers to continue the United States’ agricultural leadership,” said Rep. Panetta. “This bipartisan resolution recognizes the vital contributions of the National FFA Organization in training leaders who are ready to bolster both American food security and innovation. I am proud to once again work with my FFA Caucus co-chair, Representative Mann, to support the men and women who proudly wear the blue jacket so that they can help move our agriculture and our country forward.” 

The National FFA Organization is a congressionally chartered school-based national youth leadership organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,400 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Washington DC, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

(Photo background: Rep. Kelly meets with students from PA-16 FFA programs at his Washington office in 2022.)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) announced that Suzanne Hoban, Founder and Executive Director of the Family Health Partnership Clinic, will be his guest for this year’s State of the Union address. The Family Health Partnership Clinic provides health care to uninsured adults in McHenry County, Illinois. 

“I am proud to welcome Suzanne Hoban as my guest to this year’s State of the Union address,” said Rep. Foster. “Last year, Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress enacted the largest cuts to health care in American history, sending costs skyrocketing and increasing the number of uninsured people in Illinois by an estimated 528,000 by 2034. In the face of these cuts, the Family Health Partnership Clinic’s work is more important than ever. We must lift up leaders like Suzanne who ensure our communities have access to the affordable, high-quality health care they deserve when Washington falls short.”

“I’m honored to join Congressman Foster at this year’s State of the Union address,” said Suzanne Hoban. “At the Family Health Partnership Clinic, our mission is rooted in the belief that we have a responsibility to care for one another. Recent cuts to health care have already had a devastating impact on our community, and we will continue working every day to provide our uninsured neighbors with the health services they need. Congressman Foster has been a strong advocate for expanding affordable care, and I look forward to joining him to highlight the urgent need for lower costs and better access to care for families nationwide.”

The State of the Union is on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Pressley Heard from Immigrant Small Businesses Owners Reeling from Fear, Impact on Livelihoods, Trump Anti-Immigrant Policies

As Immigrant Communities Have Been Under Siege by the Trump Admin., Pressley Has Been Leading Voice for Immigrant Rights & Small Businesses

Video (Facebook) | Photos (Dropbox)

BOSTON – Last week, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) convened immigrant entrepreneurs and small business owners, community advocates, and municipal leaders to hear of the essential role that immigrant-owned small businesses play in Massachusetts’ economy and communities. Following the roundtable convening, Rep. Pressley held a press conference to amplify their stories and sound the alarm on the harm immigrant small business owners are facing as a result of Donald Trump’s attacks on the immigrant community.

“Our immigrant entrepreneurs and small business owners are indispensable, interwoven in the fabric of our Commonwealth and our country,” said Rep. Pressley. “The impact they have on our communities and economies reverberates far beyond the walls of their businesses—employing even one worker supports an entire family, engaging with local suppliers strengthens the state’s supply chain, and providing critical goods promotes the health, wealth, and wellness of our communities. I’m proud to support the innovation and contributions of our immigrant small business owners, and I will continue to defend their lives and livelihoods and push back against the blatant harm of this hostile White House.”

“Immigrant small business owners have invested their money, time, and energy into their work and are at risk of losing their ability to work if their Temporary Protective Status is terminated. It is sobering to hear from these entrepreneurs, who have uplifted their communities, provided employment, and supported their loved ones, express fear about what could happen. In Massachusetts, 91,400 immigrant entrepreneurs contribute more than $3.1 billion in business income annually.  These businesses power our main streets, employ workers who support families, and enrich our culture.  Ending temporary protected status will harm our economy, our workforce and the livelihoods of our neighbors.” – Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director, MIRA Coalition

“I am grateful to Congresswoman Pressley for bringing together an incredible group of talented immigrant business owners to remind us that this country was literally built on people like them. They employ people. They pay a lot of taxes. It is time to stand up now to the misguided policies of Donald Trump, who seems to unconscionably forget that he himself descends from recent immigrants.” – State Representative John Moran – 9^th Suffolk

“I’m writing as a business owner who’s invested heart, family, culture, and community into Suya Joint. Restaurants are the pulse of a neighborhood. When we disappear, the character drains out. Costs rise — payroll, food, rent, compliance — while responsibility grows. Unpredictability is exhausting. We create jobs, preserve culture, activate neighborhoods, host meals, partner locally. But does the system allow us to remain viable? Independent operators shape culture yet feel invisible in policy talks dominated by corporates. We need support — capital access, tax relief, regulatory clarity, protection for community businesses. When small restaurants close, it’s an ecosystem loss, hard to rebuild. Pride alone can’t offset imbalance. I’d welcome discussing policy to sustain small, immigrant-owned restaurants like Suya Joint. Thank you for standing with us.” – Cecelia, Owner, Suya Joint

“We applaud Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley for hosting yesterday’s important listening session in Boston with TPS business owners and community stakeholders. The gathering created a vital space for the voices of immigrant entrepreneurs, many of whom have lived, worked, paid taxes, and contributed faithfully to Massachusetts’s economic and social fabric for decades, to be heard with dignity and respect. At a time when Haitian families and workers face uncertainty and fear, Congresswoman Pressley’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to justice, economic inclusion, and human dignity. By centering the experiences of TPS business owners, she affirmed what we already know in our communities: TPS immigrants are not a burden but a blessing; builders of small businesses, job creators, homeowners, parents, and active members of our churches and civic life.” – Pastor Dieufort “Keke” Fleurrisaint with True Alliance Center

“Across the country, TPS holders like me generate $21 billion for the U.S. economy each year, yet we live with constant uncertainty about our future. Bank financing is essential to my business, but it’s nearly impossible to secure loans when my legal status is unstable. I rely on financing to purchase properties and invest in repairs and upgrades. Without TPS, I would be forced to close my business. That would devastate my family and directly harm my local community. My employees would lose their jobs. Local vendors would lose a key source of income. The closure of my small business would cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in economic loss to my community.” – Jose Urias, Business Owner, Co-Coordinator of the Massachusetts TPS Committee, and a member of the National TPS Alliance

“Immigrant workers power our small business community, from healthcare to hospitality, and when fear and instability ripple through the workforce, local businesses and neighborhoods feel it too. Employers want to comply with the law and support their teams, and that means being prepared, getting I-9 compliance right, and understanding viable immigration options. At Pathway for Immigrant Workers, we work alongside small businesses to stabilize their workforce through lawful employment-based sponsorship and practical, solutions-focused guidance.” – Leslie Ditrani, Pathway for Immigrant Workers

Running a small business is already incredibly difficult. We heard from business owners who not only carry that burden but also live in fear for the safety and livelihood of their families. Their courage was overwhelming. I am deeply ashamed that people who fled unimaginable hardship are now experiencing that same fear here. We cannot stand idly by. Mass Restaurants United stands ready as a resource and is proud to partner with MIRA and other organizations to provide support and real solutions.” – Jen Ziskin, Executive Director, Massachusetts Restaurants United

“As the owner of a translation and interpretation business, everyone on my team knows someone who has been harmed by this regime’s attack on immigrants.  The communities we serve are living in fear.  A friend of mine, an asylum seeker who came to this country to have freedom, has been imprisoned by ICE since September, and they keep moving him when he has an asylum hearing just to delay his process.  We’re reliving the ugly history of what was done to Japanese Americans with the internment camps.  Thank you, Congresswoman Pressley, for standing up for us when we need it the most.” – Danyal Najmi, Rosetta Languages

“”Immigrant-owned businesses are foundational to the American economy. Yet, recent federal actions have created fear, instability, and uncertainty within immigrant communities—conditions that undermine business growth. When entrepreneurs are forced to navigate threats of deportation, restrictive visa policies, or shifting federal enforcement priorities, it affects hiring, expansion, and long-term investment decisions. The path forward requires federal leadership that recognizes immigrant-owned businesses as vital economic engines. The strength of the U.S. economy is tied directly to the ability of immigrant entrepreneurs to operate, hire, and grow.” – Q.J. Shi, Senior Director of ABEC, Asian Business Empowerment Council

One in five workers in Massachusetts is an immigrant. Immigrant workers play a vital role in sustaining key industries, including healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, hospitality, and science. Approximately 15% of TPS holders are self-employed, representing nearly 40,000 TPS entrepreneurs nationwide and an estimated 5,000 business owners in Massachusetts.

Immigrant business owners make significant contributions to the Commonwealth’s economy. Massachusetts is home to 91,400 immigrant entrepreneurs who collectively generate $3.1 billion in business income. These businesses include home health aide agencies, childcare centers, corner store grocers, construction companies, beauty salons, tailors, and more.

Beyond their economic contributions, immigrant-owned businesses serve as community anchors, strengthening neighborhood cohesion, expanding cultural diversity, and creating spaces for cultural expression and enrichment.

Joining Rep. Pressley for the roundtable conversation was Liz Sweet, Esq. with the MIRA Coalition, Leslie Ditrani, Esq. with Pathway for Immigrant Workers, Pastor Dieufort “Keke” Fleurrisaint with True Alliance Center, Jen Ziskin with MA Restaurants United, State Representative John Moran, Aliesha Porcena, City of Boston’s Director of the Small Business Department, Monique Nguyen, Director of the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA), and several immigrant small business owners.

Video of the press conference is available here and photos here.

Rep. Pressley has been a leading voice in defense of immigrant communities under attack by the Trump administration.

In January 2026, Rep. Pressley and Senator Markey held a field hearing with members of the Haitian community on the importance of extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. Testimony was documented in the Congressional Record.

Rep. Pressley also leads a discharge petition that could compel the House vote on a bill to require the Trump Administration to extend TPS for Haiti for three years. 

In February 2026, during Oversight Democrats’ bicameral shadow hearing on the use of violence by ICE, Rep. Pressley demanded Congress end qualified immunity to ensure federal law enforcement officers are held accountable for breaking the law and murdering civilians. Rep. Pressley called on her colleagues not to settle for bare minimum reforms in funding negotiations for the Department of Homeland Security, instead urging them to fight to rebalance power and restore accountability.

In January 2026, at the invitation of Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Congresswoman Pressley went to Minneapolis to meet with organizers and community members impacted by ICE’s violent operation in Minnesota, where they have murdered bystanders, terrorized schools and small businesses, and abducted children and parents.

Following the ICE murder of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, Congresswoman Pressley and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced the Qualified Immunity Abolition Act of 2026, which builds on the lawmakers’ prior work by granting victims the right to sue federal law enforcement officers—not just state and local—for civil rights violations and abolishing the defense of qualified immunity in these suits. The expanded legislation would help deliver accountability for families abused by law enforcement, including ICE agents.

Congresswoman Pressley delivered a floor speech on the need to end qualified immunity for federal law enforcement, including immigration officers. Watch the floor speech here.

In January 2026, Congresswoman Pressley condemned the ICE murder of Renee Good in Minnesota and motioned to subpoena all records and footage related to the shooting, but Republicans obstructed it. Footage of Congresswoman Pressley’s motion to subpoena is here.

In December 2025, Rep. Pressley convened and welcomed home the workers and families impacted by the cruel and unlawful ICE raid at an Allston car wash in November. Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful speech on the House floor condemning the Allston ICE raid and defended the vibrant immigrant communities who are being maliciously stolen from their homes, ripped from their families, and unlawfully detained and deported by the Trump Administration and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

In June 2025, Congresswoman Pressley convened immigrant justice advocates, local leaders, and impacted families to tell Donald Trump and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): Hands off our immigrant neighbors. 

Rep. Pressley has also been an outspoken critic against the unlawful detention of Rümeysa Öztürk, a Tufts PhD student, Somerville resident, and constituent of the Congresswoman’s who was unlawfully detained for weeks in retaliation for her protected speech. After weeks of advocacy and Congressional oversight, including a visit to detention centers in Louisiana, Rep. Pressley and Senator Ed Markey welcomed Ms. Öztürk to Massachusetts following her arrival from ICE detention in Louisiana.

Rep. Pressley has also spoken out against reports of ICE activity in Boston and other municipalities in Massachusetts.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Legislation Would Allow Medical Wigs Be Covered Under Medicare

Bill Text

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02), alongside Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), reintroduced the Wigs as Durable Medical Equipment Act, which helps individuals affected by alopecia and patients undergoing chemotherapy access a wig without incurring significant costs.

Many private insurance plans cover wigs for those undergoing treatments that cause hair loss or who are affected by alopecia areata—but Medicare does not. This bill would allow cranial prosthetics (wigs) to be covered under the Medicare program, ensuring people of all economic backgrounds have access to this important treatment option.

“For many impacted by medical hair loss, unaffordable and inaccessible wigs can deepen an already significant mental and physical burden,” said Rep. Pressley. “As someone living with Alopecia, I know what it feels like to endure a vulnerable transformation not of my choosing. Those experiencing medical hair loss deserve to step into their own beauty and power, and I’m proud to reintroduce this bill with Congressman McGovern and Senator Blumenthal to expand coverage for wigs, relieve financial barriers, and support dignity for all.”

“For people impacted by Alopecia or undergoing cancer treatment, a wig can make a major difference—providing them with the confidence and courage to live as normally as possible during a challenging time,” said Rep. McGovern. “But wigs can cost thousands of dollars, and despite the enormous and clear benefits they provide, Medicare doesn’t currently cover them. That needs to change. This bill is about making sure everyone can live their lives with dignity and confidence, regardless of their economic situation.”

“Our measure ensures patients struggling with hair loss can live their lives with dignity and confidence,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Medicare recipients who are undergoing cancer treatment, living with Alopecia, or suffering from other forms of traumatic hair loss shouldn’t have to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars out-of-pocket to look and feel their best. By expanding coverage for medical wigs, our legislation removes the financial burden patients impacted by hair loss face and gives them the self-assurance and comfort they deserve.”

With no known cause or cure, Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune skin disease affecting approximately 6.9 million Americans. The disease disproportionately affects children and Black Americans, particularly Black women. Many individuals affected by Alopecia Areata utilize wigs as there are currently few effective treatment options. Unfortunately, these prosthetics can come with a significant out-of-pocket cost from $100 to several thousand dollars for individuals with low or fixed incomes. This is especially burdensome for children, who often want cranial prosthetics for attending school.

Information on the bill can be found here.

Since revealing her alopecia diagnosis, Rep. Pressley has become a leading voice fighting to raise awareness and support for the alopecia community across the nation.

Rep. Pressley is a lead sponsor of the CROWN Act, legislation she led with Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Barbara Lee (CA-13) and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) that would ban discrimination based on hair textures and hairstyles that are commonly associated with a particular race or national origin. She delivered a passionate floor speech in support of the CROWN Act prior to its passage in the House in March 2022.

In May 2023, Reps. Pressley, Bonne Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), led their colleagues in introducing the Recognition of Traction Alopecia in Service Women Act of 2023.

In September 2021, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Jim McGovern (MA-02) led their colleagues in re-introducing the Wigs as Durable Medical Equipment Act, legislation to help individuals affected by Alopecia Areata and patients with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy by allowing medical wigs and other head coverings to be covered under the Medicare program.

In 2020, the House passed an amendment introduced by Congresswoman Pressley to provide $5 million dollars for the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases to fund research on the causes, impacts, and possible treatments of Alopecia areata.

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