What Dreamers Need to Know

In 2012, The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was established. Since being implemented by the Obama administration, DACA has been a lifeline for nearly 700,000 undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children. Known as “Dreamers,” these individuals have been able to live, work, and study in the U.S. without fear of deportation. However, the future of DACA has been uncertain, marked by legal battles and policy changes. As Dreamers navigate this uncertainty, they must understand the current landscape, potential changes, and steps they can take to protect their status.

Current Status of DACA

As of 2024, DACA remains a contentious issue in U.S. immigration policy. The program has faced numerous legal challenges, including the risk of being terminated by the Trump Administration in 2017. These attempts led to a series of court rulings, culminating in a 2020 Supreme Court decision that blocked the termination, citing procedural issues. However, the ruling did not address the legality of DACA itself, leaving room for further challenges.

The Biden administration has strongly supported DACA in recent years, issuing executive orders to protect and fortify the program. Despite this support, ongoing lawsuits, particularly from states arguing that DACA is unlawful, threaten its stability. In July 2021, a Texas federal judge ruled DACA unlawful, preventing new applications but allowing current recipients to renew their status while the case is appealed.

Legislative Efforts and the Path Forward

A permanent solution for Dreamers hinges on legislative action. The House of Representatives is responsible for passing the American Dream and Promise Act in March 2021. These acts aim to provide a gateway to citizenship for not only DACA recipients, but other undocumented immigrants as well. However, the bill has faced significant hurdles in the Senate, where bipartisan support is necessary for it to become law.

Advocacy groups and Dreamers themselves continue to push for comprehensive immigration reform. They argue that Dreamers, who have grown up in the U.S. and contribute to society in numerous ways, deserve permanent legal status. While public support for DACA remains high, political divisions have made it challenging to achieve consensus on immigration policy.

What Dreamers Need to Know

  1. Stay Informed: Given the fluid nature of immigration policy, Dreamers must stay informed about legal developments. Following reputable news sources, immigration advocacy organizations, and official government updates can help Dreamers stay current on DACA changes.
  2. Renewals and Legal Assistance: Current DACA recipients should ensure they renew their status on time. Seeking legal is crucial when navigating the renewal process and addressingany potential issues. Immigration attorneys often provide resources and support for DACA renewals.
  3. Prepare for Alternatives: While DACA offers temporary protection, Dreamers should consider alternative immigration options that may provide more permanent solutions. Speaking to an experienced immigration attorney can help identify pathways such as family-based petitions, employment-based visas, or other humanitarian programs.
  4. Advocate and Engage: Dreamers have played an essential role in advocating for their rights and shaping public opinion. Engaging in advocacy efforts, whether through community organizations, social media, or direct communication with elected officials, can help keep the pressure on lawmakers to find a permanent solution.
  5. Educational and Employment Opportunities: DACA recipients should take advantage of the opportunities their status provides. Pursuing higher education, vocational training, or career advancement can help build a secure future, regardless of the uncertainties surrounding DACA. Many institutions and employers offer resources specifically for DACA recipients.
  6. Mental Health and Community Support: The uncertainty and stress associated with DACA’s future can affect mental health. Seeking support from community organizations, mental health professionals, and peer networks can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Dreamers need to know they are not alone and that support is available.

The Future of DACA

Although the future of DACA remains uncertain, Dreamers have demonstrated resilience and determination in the face of adversity. With the tips we covered, Dreamers can navigate the challenges ahead. While the path to permanent legal status may be complex, the ongoing efforts of Dreamers and their allies offer hope for a more stable and secure future. The fight for a lasting solution continues, and the contributions of Dreamers to American society underscore the importance of finding a resolution that recognizes their place in the nation’s fabric.

Contact Rivera Law

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