WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Donald Norcross will be attending President Donald Trump’s first address to Congress with Dr. Ali Houshmand, an Iranian-American immigrant who rose from poverty in Tehran to lead New Jersey’s Rowan University.

“Dr. Ali Houshmand’s journey from poverty to the presidency represents everything that is great about our country. Around the world, people dream of moving to America and building a new life for themselves. We can’t lock them out. We must keep that uniquely American dream alive,” Congressman Norcross said. “When President Trump looks into the audience, I hope he sees Dr. Houshmand and realizes his proposals hurt real people. Our nation is stronger and smarter because we opened our doors to Dr. Houshmand, and I’m going to keep fighting to welcome hard-working, freedom-loving immigrants to our country.”

Norcross is one of several Democrats inviting immigrants and refugees to the president’s speech. They hope to put a human face on the millions of immigrants who could be hurt by Trump’s policies.

“It’s an honor to represent Rowan University, our students and faculty at the president’s first address to Congress. I’m hopeful he’ll offer words of healing, that bring our nation together and embrace every American – regardless of faith, background or country of origin,” Dr. Houshmand said. “I appreciate Congressman Norcross’s invitation and the vigorous work he has done to support Rowan. Our university, like our country, is made stronger by diversity, and we will continue to work together to ensure every student feels welcomed here.”

“Rowan University has been recognized as one of the best and most affordable schools in the country and is an integral part of our South Jersey community,” Norcross said. “I’m working to make sure every student has the opportunity to receive a great education from pre-k to college or career. Dr. Houshmand shares that goal and under his leadership, Rowan is educating the next generation of New Jersey’s doctors, engineers and leaders.”

In advance of the speech, Norcross also laid out his hopes for the president’s address.

“It’s time for the president to abandon his divisive rhetoric and speak to the goals that unite all of us as Americans. We should be working together for higher wages, not higher walls,” Norcross said. “I’m hopeful the president will detail his infrastructure plans. Democrats and the president agree we must rebuild bridges, update our energy grid, expand high-speed internet, and ensure our water is safe to drink in every city. I believe we can work together to invest in infrastructure, create jobs and prepare our economy for a new era of growth.”

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