The International Institute of Minnesota and Neighborhood House, two of the oldest immigrant-serving organizations in the state, have come together to condemn the Sept. 5 decision by the White House to rescind Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and to urge Congress to take immediate action to protect DACA recipients and their families.
Through our long histories serving immigrants and refugees in Minnesota, the International Institute and Neighborhood House know that deferred action has long enjoyed bipartisan support. The precedent for DACA was set by President Ronald Reagan, when he granted a blanket deferral of deportation to children of parents on the pathway to citizenship. President George H.W. Bush expanded this deferral to include families, making approximately 40 percent of the undocumented population at the time eligible for protection.
Our country made a promise to 800,000 DREAMers who have fulfilled the requirements of DACA. These young, talented DACA recipients have demonstrated their commitment to building their careers and strengthening our communities. Today we stand with DREAMers: our neighbors, classmates, coworkers, and friends who have stood beside us through times of triumphs and tragedies we have faced as a nation.
The International Institute of Minnesota and Neighborhood House are saddened by the current administration’s politicization of a humanitarian issue. The resiliency and strength of the immigrants we serve inspires our continued resolve to advocate for the security of those who contribute so much to our communities.
Jane Graupman, executive director, International Institute of Minnesota, and Nancy Brady, president, Neighborhood House
