Nevada is a state shaped by migration. From Indigenous nations stewarding this land since time immemorial, to immigrant workers building our hospitality, mining, agriculture, healthcare, and construction industries, our story is one of movement, resilience, and hope.

For Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada, immigration and migration are not abstract political issues. They are about neighbors, congregants, coworkers, and families.

Nevada by the Numbers

• Roughly 1 in 5 Nevadans is foreign-born, one of the highest percentages in the country.
• Immigrant workers are essential in tourism, agriculture, construction, and service industries.
• Mixed-status families are common across Clark, Washoe, and rural counties.
• Undocumented Nevadans contribute millions annually in state and local taxes.

Immigration policy directly affects Nevada’s economy, workforce stability, schools, and faith communities.

Grounded in Lutheran Theology

Our advocacy is rooted in:

• Scripture: “You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers…” (Deut. 10:19)
• Baptismal vocation: We are called to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.
• The ELCA social message Immigration (2009) and related social teaching affirming human dignity, family unity, and humane reform.

Migration is not new to the Bible. Abraham migrated. The Israelites fled oppression. Jesus was a refugee in Egypt. The early church crossed borders of language and culture.

Current Nevada Focus Areas

LEAN’s immigration advocacy has included:

Healthcare Access

Supporting expanded state-funded healthcare access for undocumented children and working toward coverage for undocumented seniors.

Sensitive Locations & Family Stability

Protecting schools, houses of worship, and healthcare facilities from immigration enforcement actions that create fear and instability.

Protections for Immigrant Children

Advocating for policies that ensure children can access education, healthcare, and safety regardless of status.

Workforce & Economic Stability

Recognizing that Nevada’s economy depends on immigrant labor and pushing back against policies that destabilize families and industries.

What Congregations Can Do

• Host a Know Your Rights workshop in partnership with trusted legal organizations.
• Preach and teach on biblical migration stories, or use the LEAN Immigration Curriculum.
• Advocate with LEAN during the legislative session.
• Accompany immigrant neighbors through court dates or check-ins.
• Build relationships across language and cultural lines.

Why This Matters in Nevada

In a state largely composed of immigrants, whether recent arrivals or multi-generational families, migration is part of our shared story.

As Lutherans, we confess that every person is created in the image of God. Public policy must reflect that truth.

Immigration is not just a policy debate.
It is a question of dignity.
It is a question of family unity.
It is a question of who belongs.