On 9th Anniversary of DACA, Poder Latinx Reflects on the Need for a Pathway to Citizenship

On 9th Anniversary of DACA, Poder Latinx Reflects on the Need for a Pathway to Citizenship

WASHINGTON- Nine years after the Obama administration approved the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, immigrant youth and activists are continuing the fight to protect the policy from attacks at the national level. We commend the efforts of these brave activists who continually push for action for their communities, and urge Congress to find a permanent solution for a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients.

DACA was signed into law as a solution to allow individuals brought to the United States as children to apply for a renewable 2-year deferment from deportation and allows for recipients to become eligible for a work permit. DACA has been a critical relief for many immigrants, including 643,560 current DACA recipients, as it has allowed them to remain in the United States and seek quality employment opportunities and even attend college. 

“While DACA has benefited so many, there are still many immigrants who do not qualify for DACA who need relief and security. It has been nine years since DACA was implemented, and since its start, it has benefitted so many in our community. But now it's time for a solution that will bring permanent status to many undocumented residents. We will continue advocating for a pathway to citizenship and preserving DACA while urging Congress and President Biden to take critical action,” said Josue Andonaegui, Arizona State Director of Poder Latinx.

“Several of our staff members and family members have gained a more stable livelihood because of DACA, and it is regrettable that it is constantly under attack by Republicans in Congress. Congress can and should take this opportunity before it to pass permanent protections for DACA recipients. Challenges to the legitimacy of this policy continue and with a conservative Supreme Court nothing is guaranteed. The only way to guarantee permanent stability is to pass meaningful immigration reforms.” said Esteban Garces, Co-Executive Director of Poder Latinx.