About the American Immigration Council

Our Vision  

We envision a nation where immigrants are embraced, communities are enriched, and justice prevails for all. We strive to create a society that values immigrants as vital contributors to our nation and where everyone is afforded an equal opportunity to thrive socially, economically, and culturally.

Why We Do It 

We have a proud—and complicated—history as a nation of immigrants. Our immigration system and the way it treats immigrants often fail to live up to our highest values and ideals. Not only have we failed, in many cases, to afford basic due process rights, but in countless ways, our outdated immigration laws and policies do not respect the family unit, discourage innovation, and turn away those in need of protection. Our current immigration laws do not support American competitiveness, prosperity, and do not live up to our values.

What We Do 

The Council brings together problem solvers and employs four coordinated approaches to advance change—litigation, research, legislative and administrative advocacy, and communications. With this synergy, the Council works to advance positive public attitudes and create a more welcoming America—one that provides a fair process for immigrants and adopts immigration laws and policies that take into account the needs of the U.S. economy.  

How We Do It 

• We serve thousands of individuals in immigration detention centers through the Immigration Justice Campaign, our initiative with the American Immigration Lawyers Association. The Justice Campaign’s goal is to increase access to legal counsel by leveraging a nationwide network of volunteers and training lawyers to vigorously defend immigrants facing removal.

• We use the courts to demand a fair process for immigrants. The Council works to achieve justice and fairness for immigrants under the law.  The Council is highly respected for its willingness and ability to bring cutting-edge lawsuits that hold the government accountable for unlawful conduct and restrictive interpretations and implementation of the law. 

• We use the facts to educate the public on the important and enduring contributions that immigrants make to America. The Council is a national leader in challenging the myths and misinformation that too often dominate the political and public debate around immigration. Through research and analysis, the Council promotes the development of fair and rational immigration policies that reflect fundamental American values. 
• We use communications strategies to change hearts and minds on the issue of immigration.  We employ audience-centered communication strategies and community engagement to change the way people think about and act toward immigrants and immigration.  Our work is informed by multiple disciplines and grounded in the values of inclusion. 
• We use cultural exchange to connect American businesses with the global market of ideas and innovation. The Council sponsors interns and trainees for programs that secure the prosperity and cultural richness of a globally engaged society. Our experts provide direct support and training to participants, host communities, and attorneys involved in the Exchange Visitor Program.  

Our Commitment to Diversity  

The Council believes that diversity is a strength. The Council is committed to being a safe, respectful, and inclusive space, where a broad range of viewpoints and experiences are encouraged and every member of its staff and board is given the opportunity to thrive.  

Consistent with this commitment, the Council works proactively to promote diversity and equity at all levels of our organization—including board membership, staff leadership, staff at large, and interns—as well as in our external engagements. This commitment is reflected in the Council’s overall operational decisions (including, but not limited to, recruitment and hiring policies) and in concrete, intentional policies and practices aimed at fostering a culture of mutual respect and inclusion.