DACA Recipients Need Permanent Solutions Now!

During his first day in office, President Biden made a commitment to keep and improve the DACA program.  

The fact that the DACA memo was announced in the first day of this new administration is a testament to the efforts of the over 700,000 people in the DACAmented community, their families and friends, and immigrant rights advocates. Together, with the vision of DACAmented leaders, we have created a cultural moment where DACA is a day one priority for our country’s leaders. 74 percent of voters in the United States say Dreamers should be able to live and work in the United States.* 

However as of recent, on September 13, 2023, Judge Hanen ruled against the DACA program yet once again. The ruling means that while current DACA holders are protected and can continue to renew their status, new DACA applications cannot be processed or approved. Congress needs to hear from you about the urgent need to create a pathway to citizenship now.  

For far too long, DACA holders have been living in legal limbo due to our government’s inability to pass laws that can create safety from deportation and lessen the anxiety that DACA holders and their families experience. Enough is enough! Immigrant stability should not be battered by the courts when it has been demonstrated that DACA holders and recipients are people who contribute to our communities, and image bearers of the Divine in need of stability and permanency.  

What Does This Mean for DACA Recipients? 

• If you already have DACA, renew your DACA permit! If your DACA has not expired or expired less than a year ago, you can continue to renew it and the government will continue to process renewals until a court orders it to stop. Here are some helpful tips from United We Dream for renewing DACA! 
• First time (initial) DACA applicants: Judge Hanen’s order blocks the governments from granting any first-time initial DACA requests at this time. So, while the government can still accept your application and keep your application fee, it cannot approve or deny your request for DACA. United We Dream recommends “that you consult with an immigration attorney or accredited representative before filing your request.” You can find more information from United We Dream here. 

How to respond as an Ally 

• Donate to DACAmented neighbors renewing their DACA permit or hold a special offering at your church for DACAmented neighbors in your community. 

*Pew Research Center: Americans broadly support legal status for immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children.