Restoring the Promise: Immigration, Democracy and a Path Forward

In honor of Immigrant Heritage Month, the Thomas Crane Public Library is thrilled to host Attorney Antonio Massa Viana of Massa Viana Law on Restoring the Promise: A discussion about Immigration, Democracy and a Path Forward on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 from 6 - 8 PM in the Community Meeting Room of the Main Library at 40 Washington St. in Quincy Center. The program will consist of a presentation followed by a Q&A.

Restoring the Promise is a nonpartisan, community-based discussion that invites individuals from all walks of life to come together and reflect on how immigration shapes — and is shaped by — the values of American democracy. Led by attorney Antonio Massa Viana, this program opens a thoughtful conversation about how current immigration practices intersect with fundamental constitutional principles, such as due process, equal treatment under the law, and the balance of powers. Rather than focusing on politics or partisanship, Restoring the Promise focuses on shared ideals: fairness, accountability, and the belief that the strength of our democracy depends on how we treat every person under its protection.

This is an opportunity to listen, to learn, and to consider what kind of future we want to build — together. Through real-life stories, legal insights, and historical analysis, this program explores topics like constitutional rights, legal protections, civil rights, and due process. It will present vision for moving forward — balancing national interest, compassion, and the rule of law.

Antonio Massa Viana is a nationally recognized immigration attorney and the founder of Massa Viana Law. An immigrant himself, Antonio arrived in the United States at age 12 and later became the first known undocumented attorney admitted to the Massachusetts Bar. His personal journey through the immigration system inspires his deep commitment to advocacy grounded in empathy and justice for immigrant communities.

At , Antonio leads a team dedicated to serving individuals, families, and businesses in a wide range of immigration matters, including family and employment-based petitions, removal defense, and humanitarian relief The firm operates on five core values that guide every case: honest to the core, unequivocal excellence, compassion and empathy, proactive solution-seeking, and respect for community.

Beyond his legal practice, Antonio is a long-time advocate and community leader. He founded Projeto Nós Votamos to encourage naturalization and voter registration among immigrants; he sérved as president for the Massachusetts Alliance for Portuguese Speakers, a director at JFS of Metrowest and the ACLU of Massachusetts. Frequently invited to speak at public events and contribute to media outlets, Antonio continues his mission to empower and defend immigrant communities while advancing the call for a more just immigration system.

This program is free and open to all.

This program is made possible by the generous sponsorship of the Friends of the Thomas Crane Public Library. To find out more about their work and how you can get involved, visit the .

https://thomascranelibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/restoring-the-promise-a-discussion-about-immigration-democracy-and-a-path-forward/

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Thomas Crane Public Library