Nevada immigration reform advocate to speak at Democratic convention

Nevada immigration reform advocate Astrid Silva will speak on opening night of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia this month, alongside U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and First Lady Michelle Obama.

“Silva will share her story and her fight to keep families together,” the Democratic National Convention Committee wrote in its announcement.

Silva, organizing director for PLAN Action, the political arm of the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, has gained national recognition for her advocacy efforts.

In 2014, before signing an executive order in Las Vegas for an immigration plan, President Barack Obama, during a nationally televised speech, singled out Silva as an example of someone who could be affected by reforms.

Reached by phone Friday, Silva said she was still processing the announcement herself.

Silva, an undocumented immigrant who was brought to the U.S. by her parents at age 4, said she was enthusiastic about the prospect of sharing her story on such a large platform.

“I’m just really excited that I’m going to bring not only my family’s, but all of our Nevada families’ stories with me,” the 28-year-old said.

In a statement Friday, the Nevada State Democratic Party Chairwoman Roberta Lange applauded Silva’s selection.

“Her story of resilience despite the constant fear of deportation that she lived with for years will undoubtedly remind voters across the country what’s at stake in this election,” Lange said in a statement.

Contact Alexander S. Corey at acorey@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0270. Follow @acoreynews on Twitter.