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In this podcast episode, Luc Kuanzambi delivers a powerful speech to a gathering in Portland, Maine, advocating for the updating of the Immigration Registry Act of 1929. Luc highlights the plight of immigrants who often live in silence, unseen and unheard, as they navigate the complexities of the American immigration system. He emphasizes that many immigrants feel like they don’t belong in their birth countries and have come to the U.S. seeking a place where they can truly belong.

Luc speaks about the long, painful waits many immigrants endure, some lasting decades, without proper recognition or legal status, which he likens to living in an "open-air prison." He critiques both political parties for their inaction on immigration reform and expresses hope for Bill S 2606, introduced by a Californian senator, as a potential pathway to citizenship for millions of immigrants.

Throughout the speech, Luc stresses that immigrants are not just numbers or statistics but human beings deserving of full recognition and belonging in the U.S. He calls for intentional action and a renewed commitment to justice and humanity, urging lawmakers and the American public to support meaningful immigration reform. The speech concludes with a heartfelt appeal for the chance to finally be recognized as "fellow Americans."

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This episode of *Luc's Two Cents* focuses on curbing Unauthorized Practice of Immigration Law.

Luc Kuanzambi sits down with Maine's Attorney General, Aaron Frey, to discuss a pressing issue affecting the state's immigrant community: Unauthorized Practice of Immigration Law (UPIL).

Attorney General Frey welcomes Luc and the listeners from Augusta, highlighting the importance of addressing this critical topic. The conversation delves into the complexities surrounding UPIL, emphasizing the necessity of educating immigrants about their legal rights and the legal services available to them.

AG Frey explains that UPIL involves individuals who falsely represent themselves as qualified to provide legal services related to immigration, thereby exploiting vulnerable immigrants. He underscores that Maine law mandates that only licensed attorneys or federally authorized legal representatives can provide these services. Unauthorized individuals offering such services not only mislead immigrants but also potentially put them at risk of legal complications.

The episode aims to foster understanding rather than fear, with AG Frey providing clarity on what constitutes legal and non-legal support. He outlines the civil implications of UPIL and stresses the importance of community education to prevent such malpractice. The discussion also touches on the role of trusted community members in offering non-legal support, such as translation services and referrals, while cautioning against providing unauthorized legal advice.

Luc and AG Frey explore the broader impact of UPIL on Maine's immigrant population, highlighting the need for continued efforts to educate and protect this community. Through this dialogue, *Luc's Two Cents* seeks to amplify the voices of immigrants and ensure they receive the support and guidance they need to navigate their legal journeys in the United States.

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This episode features Mardochée Mbongi, chairman of the Congolese Community Association of Maine. Mardochée shares his inspiring story of fleeing persecution in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, finding temporary safety in Liberia, and ultimately filing for asylum in the United States.

We'll hear about the challenges Mardochée faced upon arriving in the US and in Maine, including homelessness. But his story is one of resilience. He quickly became involved in community programs and advocacy efforts.

Mardochee dives into the importance of accurate data collection for immigrant communities. He explains the different categories of immigrants in Maine, including asylum seekers, refugees, and those with legal status through other means.

You'll also learn about the significant size and growing numbers of the Congolese community in Maine. This is especially important as Maine grapples with an aging population and slow birth rates.

The episode concludes with Mardochée discussing his role as chairman of the Congolese Community Association of Maine and the essential work the organization does to empower and support its members.

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