Trump’s Decision to End DACA Is Morally Bankrupt

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Republican Congressional Leadership Must Step Up, Provide Lasting Solution

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, UnidosUS (formerly NCLR), condemns President Trump’s decision to rescind DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), as announced by Attorney General Jeff Sessions. DACA is a successful policy that has brought immigration relief to about 800,000 young people who were brought to the United States as children. In addition to deferring deportation, DACA has enabled these young people—who are required to pass a background check and pay a $495 fee—to obtain jobs, pursue higher education and otherwise contribute to the nation. Ending DACA threatens recipients with deportation from the only country many of them have ever known.

“President Trump has again chosen to appease the bigots in his base rather than do what is in the best interest of the country. This has never been so clear than in today’s decision to end DACA. This action is not just short-sighted, it’s unspeakably cruel and gratuitous. For no plausible purpose or rationale that makes sense to anyone other than the most anti-immigrant extremists in our midst, he is saying ‘no thanks’ to young people who contribute to our country every single day. This is a travesty for our community and for our country,” said UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía.

Three out of four registered voters support DACA, including a majority of Republicans, according to recent poll data from FWD.us. And in Congress, there are proposals—from both sides of the aisle—to expand the program.

“Republican congressional leadership must act now to enact relief for these young people who have done what America has asked of them. Congress has the power to fix this, and there’s bipartisan legislation ready to get it done. It’s time to translate injustice into action,” Murguía added.

UnidosUS, previously known as NCLR (National Council of La Raza), is the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization. Through its unique combination of expert research, advocacy, programs, and an Affiliate Network of nearly 300 community-based organizations across the United States and Puerto Rico, UnidosUS simultaneously challenges the social, economic, and political barriers that affect Latinos at the national and local levels. For almost 50 years, UnidosUS has united communities and different groups seeking common ground through collaboration, and that share a desire to make our country stronger. For more information on UnidosUS, visit unidosus.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.