In the days following the announcement to repeal the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, our community has faced one of the most difficult moments in recent history. But in those days, we have also seen our community come together to protect the rights of those closest to us.
Repealing DACA is a dangerous hateful mistake that does not reflect American ideals and values. The average DACA recipient – or DREAMer – arrived in the United States at the age of six and knows only this country as their home. DACA allows these community members to work and learn in the U.S. for up to two years without fear of deportation, and they’re thriving:
- 95% are working or in school
- 63% have attained better-paying jobs since acquiring DACA status
- 54% have purchased their first car
- 12% have purchased their first home
With the deadline for renewal drawing near, several local grassroots organizations including: Aliento, CAIR-Arizona, Center for Neighborhood Leadership, Mi Familia Vota, Trans Queer Pueblo and Undocumented Students for Education Equity at ASU have come together to help students with the renewal process free of charge. Nuñez & Associates, a local immigration-focused law firm, is also playing a key role in this process.
As these organizations band together to protect our community members, you can join the fight. Each DACA renewal application carries a $495 fee payable to the Department of Homeland Security – a fee that some DREAMers cannot pay. You can visit https://www.youcaring.com/localdreamers-941139 and make a donation to help our DREAMers continue their fight.
The YWCA Metropolitan Phoenix stands behind our DREAMers in their tenacity and unrelenting spirit – and we are prepared to fight for them. It is not only in the best interest of our country to help these young patriots, but it is also the right, just and fair thing to do.
We urge Congress and our state leaders to work quickly to provide a permanent solution to the 800,000 young adults this decision will impact. To our 28,000 Arizona DREAMers: We love you and are with you! We must stand together as a voice to defend and fight for our DACAmented community.
#HereToStay