CHC Chair Barragán Applauds Actions by Administration to Strengthen American Dream for Latinos
Las Vegas, NV – Today, Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) ChairNanetteBarragán (CA-44) released the following statement:
"I applaud President Biden and Vice President Harris for announcing new actions that will empower Latino families and communities across America. I’m with President Biden in Las Vegas, Nevada, today, where he was ready to speak directly to Latinos about the steps his Administration has taken to strengthen our broken immigration system and help Latinos go from classrooms to good-paying careers. Thousands of families now have a better shot at the American Dream.
In August, eligible spouses and children of U.S. citizens will finally be able to begin the process of obtaining legal status without having to leave the country. This will allow families to stay together and avoid the risk of deportation or delays in returning to the U.S. This is the most significant immigration reform since the Obama-Biden administration established DACA 12 years ago. In May 2024, CHC Leadership Members met with President Biden and Vice President Harris at the White House to emphasize that this was one of our Caucus’ top priorities. Now, nearly 500,000 spouses and 50,000 children can rest assured that they won’t be separated from their families and loved ones. They are finally able to come out of the shadows.
Taking it a step further, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that immigration-related assistance will be available in underserved and rural communities at familiar locations such as libraries and community colleges. This will greatly help families navigate our complex immigration system.
In addition to immigration reforms, the Administration has made a concerted effort to help Latino students transition from classrooms to careers. America’s 500+ Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), which enroll nearly 4.7 million students, will receive additional federal resources, alongside a new Initiative and President’s Board of Advisors for HSIs, to better serve and guide Latino students. High school Dreamers will also gain access to the Federal TRIO program, which supports low-income and first-generation college students through higher education. These initiatives will help Latino students and their families thrive financially, grow their wealth, and continue to make significant contributions to America’s economy.
On behalf of the CHC, I’d like to thank President Biden and Vice President Harris for putting people over politics and ensuring every family, including millions of Latinos, has a fair shot at the American Dream. As someone who has seen the struggles of our community firsthand, these actions give me hope for a brighter future for all Latino families.”
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