Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The Costa Banderas Democrats Abroad is holding a community meeting to discuss the issues surrounding stalled immigration reform legislation in the United States. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The United States Congress and the President are urging Immigration reform in the US and Obama has already outlined his position and his goals. The House of Representatives and the Senate have committees studying the issue, so there seems to be general agreement that reform is critical.

However, each side is mandating certain "necessary" components and it is questionable whether any relevant reform will pass. In fact, the Senate's "Gang of Eight" left DC for a two week break on March 22nd with a deal on immigration reform in limbo, stalled by a fight between "Big Labor" and "Big Business."

Democrats Abroad are holding a community meeting to help people understand the issues involved and what steps may be necessary to get meaningful legislation passed. It will be held on Thursday, April 11th, at the International Friendship Club located at Edificio Parian del Puente #13, Calle Libertad Corner Miramar, Colonia El Centro, Puerto Vallarta. It begins at 7:30 pm with a panel presentation, followed up by discussion, and audience participation.

• Moderator - Marie O'Connor - Vice President Democrats Abroad. An overview of current US immigration policy and the number of undocumented people estimated to be in the US.

• Historical Perspective - Dan Grippo - Noted local historian. Emphasis on the cycles and changes in US policy - "Yes, you are welcome/No, you are not."

• Mexican Perspective - Luis Melgoza - Citizen from both Mexico and the United States. His experience working for the Mexican Embassy when living in the US plus observations on reform.

• Proposals Before Congress - John Wilson-Bugbee - Democrats Abroad board member heading up a special task force on immigration issues in the US. Who are the key players? What appears to be the major stumbling blocks?

The panel will be followed by general discussion and it is open to anyone who would like to come.

Contact Bonnie Mott - bonmott(at)hotmail.com - if you need more information.

Note: This has nothing to do with Mexico immigration changes in visa status.