Poder Latinx Urges Congress to Pass Legislation To Permanently Protect DACA and Increase Protections for Undocumented People
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 19, 2021
CONTACT:
Fernanda Durand | (214) 402-0186 | fernanda@communicationsshop.us
Poder Latinx Urges Congress to Pass Legislation To Permanently Protect DACA and Increase Protections for Undocumented People
WASHINGTON - Following U.S. District Court Judge Andrew Hanen’s decision last week to put a partial block on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Poder Latinx has issued a statement regarding the future of immigration reform in the United States:
“The DACA program was built by and created by immigrant youth risking safety and deportation to force action. It was a win that is owned by those courageous efforts, and last week's ruling not only attacks the protections extended to DACA recipients but also signals the conservative right's commitment to reverse any struggle won by the immigrant community. Poder Latinx will steadfastly defend our belief that vulnerable immigrant populations, including DACA-supported young people and children, deserve a chance at safety and opportunity. Conservative state litigants exude no compassion. Let it be known that as a result of their efforts, hundreds of thousands of people’s futures remain uncertain. Now, the responsibility rests entirely with the U.S. Senate, and they need to take action. No more wait and see. The time to act is now. While Senate Democrats have mentioned that a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients will be included in the budget reconciliation package, we need a solution now. We call on Congress to take this critical step in protecting DACA and creating a pathway to citizenship for all immigrants now.
Today marks a dark day for many members of our community. For nine years, the DACA initiative has helped members of our community feel secure, find suitable employment to provide for their families, and attend colleges and universities. Congress can and should take this opportunity to pass permanent protections for DACA recipients and all undocumented people. We will continue urging Congress and President Biden to act on this critical issue to protect our community,” said Adonias Arevalo, National Organizing Director at Poder Latinx.
“I was numb for a couple of seconds after learning about Judge Hanen’s ruling on DACA, but I have no other option but to collect myself and prepare to start the fight again against these persistent attacks against immigrant communities. It is time for a comprehensive solution to arise from the United States Senate to protect all immigrants. We have now seen why the Senate needs to bring permanent status to many undocumented folks. We will continue advocating for a pathway to citizenship and preserving DACA while urging Congress and President Biden to take the critical action our community desperately needs,” said Josue Andonaegui, Arizona State Director of Poder Latinx.
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