Exit interview: Ali Noorani reflects on immigration landscape in Massachusetts

April 25, 2008 10:42 AM Email| Comments (0)| Text size – +

Ali Noorani, the executive director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, leaves today to run the National Immigration Forum in Washington D.C. For the past four years, he has been a leading advocate for immigrants in Massachusetts.

(Globe file photo/2005)

Before leaving, he answered some questions from the Globe's immigration reporter, Maria Sacchetti:

What is the top immigration issue in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has the opportunity to integrate a new generation of immigrants and refugees in a way that serves the entire Commonwealth. To do this, we need to serve the needs and aspirations of immigrants and refugees just like we serve the needs and aspirations of any other person.

How does the debate over immigration in Massachusetts compare to other states?

Having leadership in the State House that doesn't scapegoat immigrants at every turn makes a huge difference. But, while one could argue life hasn't gotten worse for immigrants and refugees in Massachusetts, I think we have a long way to go before life gets better.

How has the recent immigration changed Massachusetts, since the state is still mostly white?

Massachusetts is dealing with a demographic transition the rest of the country has already undergone. It is beautiful to see immigrant communities, restaurants and stores throughout Massachusetts -- it makes the area all the more special.

What should public policy makers do about immigration?

Immigration is not an abstract issue, it is about people. Fundamental to our country is the fair treatment of all people -- our laws need to reflect this core value.

What do you think your biggest accomplishment was here?

I am most proud of the fact that our Coalition has grown from less than 50 member organizations to over 115 organizations across Massachusetts doing work across New England. None of our accomplishments would have been possible without such a strong membership.

What do you wish you could have done more of?

I wish I could have figured out a way to meet the immigrants who make the Red Sox so amazing!

Noorani bio:

--A native of Salinas, Calif., Noorani graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and receiveda master's in public health from Boston University.

-- Previously served as director of public health for the Codman Square Health Center and Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, managing efforts ranging from HIV/AIDS to youth development. Also worked for the City of Boston coordinating funding and technical assistance to environmental justice projects across the region.

-- Received the Alfred L. Frechette Award from the Massachusetts Public Health
Association for exceptional leadership in promoting social justice and
received the 2007 Boston University Young Alumni Award.