"Remember that this is not just a debate about policy. It’s about people. It’s about men and women and young people who want nothing more than the chance to earn their way into the American story.” These were the words of President Obama on January 29, 2013 as he called for comprehensive immigration reform.

While in search of the American Dream, many immigrants have made unimaginable sacrifices to create a better life for their families. Some arrived to our shores legally with temporary visitor, worker or student visas which they have overstayed.

Experts of color and policy-makers were eagerly anticipating President Obama’s State of the Union Address this week. During the speech, President Obama addressed policies to improve immigration, education, and the economy, among other items.

This past Tuesday, President Obama spoke in Las Vegas regarding his plan for immigration reform. The president’s proposal is comprised of four parts. First, he plans to continue to strengthen our borders. Second, he aims to end the illegal process of employers hiring undocumented workers. The third component of his plan is to have a plausible process for the 11 million undocumented workers to gain citizenship. Lastly, President Obama seeks to encourage legal immigration amongst foreign entrepreneurs and graduate students to increase innovation developed in the United States.

Congress is considering a bill by my colleague from Texas, Congressman Lamar Smith, entitled the STEM Jobs Act of 2012. While I commend Congressman Smith’s initiative to address the shortage of talent in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, this issue would best be addressed as part of a comprehensive immigration plan.

Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez (D-IL) discusses why he believes that Congress must act on comprehensive immigration reform.

In evaluating the state of racism in 21st century America, some of the greatest change is coming from youth leaders. GlobalPolicy.TV, with permission is bringing you the second article in the special report on race in America series, Color Blinded: Do Americans See Race Too Much – or Not Enough? published by The American Prospect and Demos, in their April 2011 issue. This special report was funded in part by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.