Reverend Monsignor Milam J. Joseph

Reverend Monsignor Milam J. Joseph, a priest of the Diocese of Dallas, and USML’s 2023 Cardinal Meyer Lecturer, is the son of Lebanese immigrants and president emeritus of the University of Dallas. As a young pastor at Immaculate Conception Church in Tyler, TX, he confronted the challenge of the local school district imposing tuition on undocumented students. Leveraging the church’s tradition of support, his role became crucial in the Plyler v Doe case, reaching the US Supreme Court in 1982. This precedent established access to public services, including education, for immigrants regardless of legal status. Reverend Monsignor Milam J. Joseph’s efforts for justice, equality, and compassion continue to resonate as a symbol of justice, equality, and compassion for immigration rights and public services. Joseph’s efforts for justice, equality, and compassion continue to resonate today.