DENVER (CBS4) – One of Colorado’s biggest unions is jumping into the debate over immigration reform.

The AFL-CIO is forming the Colorado Labor Immigration Working Group to protect immigrants and their families. The group says it’s fighting for comprehensive reform to strengthen the community and economy.

“We as laborers believe that what unites us as Americans is our belief in shared values and our country; not where we were born. Work connects us all,” Mike Cerbo with Colorado AFL-CIO said.

President Barack Obama is also fighting for immigration reform. His plan would allow illegal immigrants to gain temporary legal status if they pass a background check and pay a fine and back taxes.