Letter from our Executive Director

Dear Friends,

As the dust settles from one of the most contentious elections in recent memory, at IRIS we find ourselves at a place of uncertainty. For those of us working to support immigrants and build an inclusive, equitable future, the election has reinforced a harsh truth: the fight for justice is far from over.

This election season brought challenging moments, including rhetoric that sought to divide us and scapegoat immigrants. Throughout history these tactics have been used to exploit fear and uncertainty to target vulnerable communities. While these narratives have the potential to harm, they do not define our future. While it may seem like democracy's protections have weakened, they are not beyond repair. They depend on us to strengthen them, to insist on truth, and to reject hatred in all its forms.

Despite the challenges, there is reason for optimism. Across the country, people from all walks of life have mobilized like never before. Communities are organizing, raising their voices, and demanding a fundamentally different country—one where diversity is celebrated, and justice is the cornerstone of our shared future. This spirit of resilience and unity gives me hope.

But hope alone is not enough. It is a call to action. The road ahead will be hard, requiring vigilance, creativity, and, above all, collective effort. We must push back against harmful policies and work tirelessly to create systems that protect and uplift immigrants and all marginalized communities.

The work begins anew today. Hope is hard work—it demands more than belief; it requires action, persistence, and courage. Together, we must commit to creating the world we want to live in—a world where justice prevails, where diversity is celebrated, and where every person, regardless of where they come from, is treated with dignity and respect. Let’s turn hope into action and build that future, step by step, starting now.

In gratitude, 

Troy Elder, Executive Director