By: Dr Avi Verma

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) has continued his strong advocacy for both Americans abroad and immigrant communities at home through a series of legislative and community-focused initiatives over the past few months. His efforts highlight a commitment to human rights, civic engagement, and economic opportunity for families in his district and nationwide.

Securing the Release of Americans Detained in China

In a bipartisan effort, Congressman Krishnamoorthi joined Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) to introduce the Nelson Wells Jr. and Dawn Michelle Hunt Unjustly Detained Americans in Communist China Act. This legislation seeks to strengthen U.S. diplomatic advocacy for Americans wrongfully detained in China, highlighting the case of Chicago native Dawn Hunt, imprisoned since 2014 under false accusations.

The bill directs the State Department to develop a diplomatic action plan for detainees, provide family support and travel assistance, issue formal declarations of invalidity for wrongfully detained individuals, and pursue sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act against Chinese officials responsible for these detentions. “Dawn Hunt is a daughter of Chicago and a victim of a gross miscarriage of justice,” said Krishnamoorthi. “This legislation is about Dawn and all Americans unjustly detained abroad. America will never abandon its own.”

Other notable cases addressed by the bill include Nelson Wells Jr., misled into carrying narcotics to China, and Dr. Gulshan Abbas, a Uyghur-American detained in retaliation against her family’s activism.

Recognition for Community Leadership

In addition to his legislative work, Congressman Krishnamoorthi was honored with the 2025 Dalip Singh Saund Award by Indian American Impact. The award recognizes leaders who exemplify civic engagement and community leadership, honoring the legacy of the first Indian American elected to Congress. “I accept this award not just as recognition of past work, but as a call to keep fighting for the values of democracy, inclusion, and opportunity for all,” said Krishnamoorthi during the Summit and Gala.

Fighting Hunger and Supporting Working Families

Back in his district, Krishnamoorthi spoke out against federal policies threatening anti-hunger programs. He condemned the Trump Administration’s elimination of the USDA’s annual Household Food Security Report, a key tool for tracking hunger in the United States. “Turning a blind eye to hungry children doesn’t make the problem go away—it only leaves struggling families invisible and without support,” he said.

Protecting Immigrant Families and Workforce Talent

Krishnamoorthi has also led bipartisan efforts to protect immigrant youth through the America’s CHILDREN Act. This legislation safeguards children of long-term visa holders—known as Documented Dreamers—from having to self-deport at age 21. By allowing these young adults to remain in the United States, the bill ensures they can contribute to their communities, complete higher education, and enter the workforce without fear of losing legal status.

“The United States is the only home many of these children have ever known,” Krishnamoorthi stated. “By forcing them to leave, we deny both the next generation and our country the opportunity to benefit from their talents and contributions.” The bill has garnered strong bipartisan support and is accompanied by companion legislation in the Senate.

Opposing High H-1B Fees

Krishnamoorthi also criticized the proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee, warning that it would weaken the U.S. economy by discouraging high-skilled workers who drive innovation and job creation. He emphasized that America should modernize immigration policies to attract global talent rather than erecting barriers that threaten competitiveness.

A Consistent Advocate for Chicago and Beyond

From fighting for the release of Americans unjustly detained abroad to championing anti-hunger measures, protecting immigrant youth, and opposing policies that harm working families, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s recent actions reflect his sustained commitment to both his constituents and Americans worldwide. His initiatives illustrate the combination of local engagement and global advocacy that has defined his tenure in Congress.