The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been a lifeline for many since its inception in 2012. DAca was created by an executive order from President Barack Obama and provides temporary relief from deportation for children brought to the U.S. by their parents. These “childhood arrivals” must meet specific criteria to qualify for the program. In addition to the promise of deferred action, DACA recipients are eligible for work authorization, enabling them to contribute to society in meaningful ways.
The Impact of DACA
Since its creation, DACA has allowed over 1.2 million people to work, pursue education, and contribute to the U.S. economy. Many of these DACA recipients have become essential workers, including doctors, lawyers, and even rocket scientists. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they were among the first responders and healthcare workers. DACA recipients have also been integrated into American society, as homeowners, consumers, and contributors to local economies. Their contributions have been invaluable to the national interest.
Challenges Under Trump’s Presidency
Despite its success, DACA has faced significant challenges. Former President Trump attempted to end the program during his first term, leading to ongoing legal battles. Most recently, arguments were heard in Texas, where the state argued that DACA harms its interests. Conversely, states like New Jersey highlighted the program’s benefits, including economic contributions and social integration.
The uncertainty surrounding DACA has intensified following Trump’s recent election. His administration’s history of hardline immigration policies and contradictory statements about DACA’s future have left recipients anxious. While Trump has promised protection for DACA recipients in some statements, his previous attempts to terminate the program raise concerns about his true intentions.
The Evolution of DACA
From 2012 to 2017, initial DACA applications were accepted from those that met specific criteria, such as being under 30 years old in June 2012, arriving in the U.S. before 2007, and meeting age-related application requirements. However, since 2017 no new applications have been accepted. While existing DACA recipients have been allowed to renew their status, they faced other setbacks, such as the loss of advanced parole, which allowed them to travel for education, work, or humanitarian reasons. Advanced parole was reinstated under President Biden, and many DACA recipients have since utilized it to visit family and fulfill humanitarian needs.
The Current Legal Landscape
Recent legal arguments in Texas have raised complex questions about state-level impacts of DACA. Texas claimed that the program has imposed financial burdens, while other states argue that DACA recipients have significantly benefited their communities.
The notion that ending DACA would lead to self-deportation has been unfounded, as most recipients have deep ties to the U.S., including mixed-status families and U.S. citizen children. Many DACA recipients have little connection to their countries of origin, often do not speak the language or having any cultural ties.
Mixed Signals from Trump
Trump’s messaging on DACA has been inconsistent. On one hand, he has expressed support for the program, stating that DACA recipients should stay. On the other hand, his campaign rhetoric included promises of mass deportations. This has created confusion and fear among DACA recipients and their families. It appears that political motivations and public perceptions of immigration have heavily influenced Trump’s stance.
Why DACA Matters
Deporting the 600,000 DACA recipients would have devastating consequences for families, industries, and the economy. DACA recipients have relied on the program’s benefits to build stable lives, and their removal would create widespread disruption. In addition, public misunderstanding of the distinction between DACA recipients and recent border arrivals has fueled unnecessary fear and misinformation.
Support for DACA is vital. Advocates can make their voices heard by contacting congressional representatives and engaging in online campaigns. Many people may unknowingly know a DACA recipient—they are indistinguishable from other Americans in their accents, appearances, and contributions to society.
If you have questions about how to support DACA or are a DACA recipient seeking guidance about your future, please reach out. Together, we can ensure that DACA recipients remain an integral part of our communities.
The Immigration Law Offices of Hadley Bajramovic have been helping immigrants to the United States since 2009. Hadley Bajramovic is an established leader in the field of immigration law serving the local and international immigrant community. She has been recognized for her work by notable and respected elected officials including United States Congressmen Mark Takano and Pete Aguilar. She also serves on immigration advisory boards for both Congressman Takano and Congressman Aguilar.
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