Speech #900296495

While we take pleasure in acknowledging these positive results. we must express our disappointment at the problems still to be resolved. These problems are: First. A backlog of about 100.000 brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens who are still waiting to obtain visas. some for as long as 12 years. Second. As a consequence of this heavy backlog. there will be no visas available beginning today. July 1. 1968. for sixth preference applicantsskilled workersfrom Italy because all of the visas allotted will be preempted by the applicants in the higher categories. The Reverend Cogo emphasized that ACIM will seek emergency relief for the "brothers and sisters" backlog. which would open again the possibility of migration of skilled Italian workers. He said: We intend to be vigilant to protect our just gains and to solve the problems that remain. E. Howard Molisani. first vice president of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. also expressed his concern over the fact that after today. no skilled Italian workers will be able to obtain a visa. He said: All visas In the Italian quota. in fact. will be preempted by relatives. and especially by brothers and sisters. Many in our industries have always relied on immigrants from Italy who are well known for their varied skills. The clearance of brothers and sisters lists would automatically insure a continuing flow of skilled men and women into this country. ACIM. which is represented nationally by 102 chapters located in key areas throughout the country. carries out a function of "watchdog and spokesman" on immigration matters. particularly as it affects Italian migration. in order to safeguard the gains of the new reform immigration law and to correct remaining difficulties. Judge Marchisio announced also the opening of an ACIM branch office in Naples. which is Italys major port of embarkation. to give assistance to prospective immigrants prior to their arrival here. The organization is also engaged in a program of guidance and assistance to immigrants after their arrival here. in order to effect a prompt and smooth assimilation into the lifestream of America. The smallest one of the caravels presented to the President was made by an artisan from the Genoa region. It is a replica of a fast. easytomaneuver ship of the type used by Columbus.