Campaign Action
Hundreds of colleges and universities have signed a letter urging Congress to “pass a long-term legislative fix as soon as possible to protect Dreamers”:
Colleges and universities have seen these remarkable people up close, in our classrooms and as our colleagues and friends. Despite the challenges they face, they have made incredible contributions to our country and its economy and security. They should continue to be able to do so. If we are unable to protect these Dreamers, we will be shutting the door to an entire generation of individuals who seek to contribute their best to America.
Our letter echoes the request made in the Sept. 20 letter from over 800 business and industry leaders in asking that Congress provide Dreamers with the permanent legislative solution that they deserve. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce also supports this request. Children brought to the United States at a young age did not have a choice in the matter and are today Americans in every way but immigration status. It remains in America’s best interest to enable them to use their knowledge, skills and energy to continue to make the strongest possible contribution to our country.
The letter notes that “there is widespread support among your constituents and across the country on the need to protect these individuals. A Sept. 24-26 Fox News poll found that 62 percent of Americans say it is extremely or very important for Congress to pass legislation to address the Dreamers.” One NBC/Washington Post poll showed that nearly 90 percent of Americans support letting undocumented immigrant youth stay.
But just as importantly, this is a humanitarian issue. Thousands of undocumented youth are already losing protections, including work permits. And because DACA youth are not eligible for federal financial aid due to their immigration status, not being able to work legally may mean not being able to pay tuition. As immigrant rights leader Frank Sharry tweeted, this is a “crisis.” Dreamers—students, parents, business owners, Americans in every way but on paper—need a clean DREAM Act now.