March, 2007

As You Don't Speak for Me! approaches the first anniversary of its formation, and as the pro-illegal alien advocacy network prepares, once again, for demonstrations aimed at equating their agenda with the American Hispanic agenda, Retired Colonel Al Rodriguez, chairman of YDSFM, issued the following statement on behalf of the organization:

"Since the formation of YDSFM, nearly one year ago, our organization has provided an effective counterpoint to a coalition of pro-illegal alien advocacy groups that have purported to speak on behalf of Americans of Hispanic ancestry. We are proud that since YDSFM was founded we have received support and encouragement from thousands of American Hispanics - those who were born in this country and those who immigrated legally - and from Americans of all walks of life.

"We affirm our status as citizens of the United States and, in our civic lives, we are first and foremost Americans. We embrace the principles of our nation and the rule of law which are set forth in our constitution, and reject all attempts to divide this nation along ethnic, racial, or religious lines.

"Like all other Americans, we are also proud of ancestral heritages. In our private lives we cherish many of the customs and traditions that we and our ancestors brought to this country. Just as we reject efforts by the illegal alien advocacy network to use our common heritage to advance their own political agenda, so too do we reject attempts by the radical fringe that seeks to limit and enforce immigration in furtherance of their own distasteful views on racial identity. They do not speak for us and we do not speak for them.

"You Don't Speak for Me! supports an immigration policy that requires everyone to respect the laws of this nation; that protects the legitimate interests of the American people; that embraces newcomers of all backgrounds who obey our laws, contribute to the common good, and endeavor to become a part of the fabric of American society. We believe these views are shared by the vast majority of Americans of Hispanic heritage. Any organization or individual who does not espouse these core values does not speak for us.

For more information please contact Ira Mehlman (213) 700-0407.