CHC ON ROLL OUT OF DEFERRED ACTION APPLICATIONS
Chairman Charles Gonzalez (TX-20): “For far too long these young people were unfairly penalized by the inaction and obstructionism of Republicans in Congress. But now, thanks to the steps taken by President Obama and his administration, young people who have been raised in this country, educated in our schools, and who pledge allegiance to our flag will now be shielded from the threat of deportation and qualify for basic protections to allow them to more fully contribute to this country.”
Rep. Luis V. Gutierrez (IL-04), Chair of the CHC Immigration Task Force: “The people who say undocumented immigrants don't really want to be part of this country will have to rethink that when they see hundreds of thousands or maybe a million young people come forward to sign-up in the coming weeks and months. The hard-working young immigrants who sign-up are charting a course towards reestablishing law and order in our immigration system and are genuine leaders. I am proud of them and the immigrant community and the City of Chicago for being national leaders for immigration reform."
“This is going to help break through the political obstacles blocking broader, permanent immigration reform because this demonstrates that when people are given a chance to get in the system and on the books, they will take it. We need to find a way for the parents and neighbors of these young people to come forward too and to establish a legal immigration system that will restore dignity, legality, and humanity to our immigration system.”
Rep. Jose Serrano (NY-16): “Today is a joyous day in our community as thousands of children and young adults who have been living in fear and suspense can finally begin to lead full lives without fear of deportation. President Obama’s plan will give them a chance to complete their studies and to work legally. They will be eligible for student aid and will no longer find that graduation means a dead end. Their dreams and aspirations can now start to become a reality. This is a huge benefit for them and for our country.”
Rep. Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus:“It’s time to make the dream come true. So, eligible youth must take every precaution in the application process to do it right and to avoid fraudulent service providers. Immigrant youth should seek assistance from trusted organizations in our communities to walk them through the application process. I’m pleased that USCIS is taking the necessary steps to implement President Obama’s deferred action policy which gives our youth the opportunity to put their education to work for the country they love and call home.”
Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34): “As an original co-author of the DREAM Act, I am excited that “Dreamers” may begin applying for deferred action status today. This designation will allow them to live, work and study legally in the only country they love and call home. By creating this process, President Obama has demonstrated his commitment to giving every child a fair shot at the American dream.”
Rep. Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15): "As a strong supporter of comprehensive immigration reform, I believe that ultimately we need to address every aspect of our nation's broken immigration policies if we are to solve the problem. In my view, DREAM students must be given every opportunity to contribute their talent to our nation's economy, workforce, and civic life. These young people study in our schools, play in our neighborhoods, and pledge allegiance to our flag. They are Americans in their hearts, in their minds, in every single way but on paper. I will continue to fight on behalf of the DREAM students and immigrant families for a path to citizenship through full immigration reform."
Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA-38): “This first step in assisting those who have worked tirelessly in helping our economy grow has been a long time coming. We’re educating these youngsters who have known no other country and came here through no fault of their own. It is their love of the U.S. that keeps them here. We must continue to look forward to comprehensive immigration reform to ensure that we bring hundreds of thousands more people out of the shadows, allowing them to have a productive place in society.”
Rep. Linda Sanchez (CA-39): “I applaud President Obama for taking a positive step toward reforming our immigration system. Those who work hard and abide by our laws should have the opportunity to educate themselves and help our great nation prosper and grow. These changes will make a world of difference to the hundreds of young people in my district who want to give back to the country they call home. It is my hope that the Republican leadership will follow the President’s example and pass the DREAM Act in the House of Representatives.”
Rep. Ben Ray Luján (NM-03): “With the beginning of deferred action for childhood arrivals, children who were brought to our country at a young age through no fault of their own will not have to live in shadows and in fear. Those who want nothing more than to give back through military service or pursue an education in order to contribute to our economy will have an opportunity to do so. This policy is an important step but it does not replace the need for Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, which includes the DREAM Act.”