Pressure Trump to resume DACA Program, Support Paths to Citizenship

I’m writing today to I urge support for efforts in Congress to pressure the Trump Administration to resume processing initial applications for the important Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This is the programs 13th anniversary. We must do this in defense of what we already know: immigrants have been, are, and will continue to be part of our nation. This program is one of the most useful and successful ever implemented, and it’s the right thing to continue to do. The recent Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling narrowing the nationwide injunction to only Texas provides a clear opportunity to reinstate this vital program for Dreamers outside of that state. These young people are American in every way except for their immigration status, and they make immense contributions to our nation through their work, studies, and service. Currently, there are over 100,000 initial DACA applications pending, and Congress must press the Administration to act swiftly to provide these individuals with the protections and opportunities they deserve. Processing these applications is not only the moral course of action, but it aligns with the overwhelming public support for creating a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. The economic benefits to the country from DACA recipients are also substantial, with recipients bolstering the economy through spending power and tax contributions. Further delay is unacceptable when the legal pathway is now clear. The Administration must uphold its stated support for Dreamers and immediately restart the DACA program. Thank you for your attention to this matter.