UnidosUS Urges Congress To Do What is Right and Just for DREAMers and TPS Recipients

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“American Dream and Promise Act of 2019” would bring about needed relief for immigrant families living in limbo

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R.6, also known as the “American Dream Act and Promise Act of 2019.” The measure, originally introduced by Representatives Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) and Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), provides a pathway to citizenship for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and individuals who are in the country under temporary protected status (TPS). UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía, issued the following statement in support:

“Today’s passage of American Dream and Promise Act of 2019 is an urgently needed step towards protecting DACA and TPS holders, who are integral to American society. We thank Congresswomen Roybal-Allard and Velazquez for shepherding this measure as well as Speaker Pelosi for her leadership. For far too long, DACA recipients and TPS holders have been forced to a life in limbo because of the cruel decisions and actions of the Trump administration. Today’s vote represents a good-faith effort from Congressional leaders to fix the problem and deliver on a measure that has the backing of the American people.

Inaction is not an option. DACA and TPS holders have made significant investments to this country—they have studied in American institutions and worked across major industries. But more importantly, they have sowed roots in this nation. They are caregivers and breadwinners and have enriched the American social fabric. And they have waited nine years for Congress to once again take up a measure that would ensure permanent relief and protections.

Our country is long overdue for immigration reform. The DREAM bill has always had bipartisan support. If Republicans in the Senate want to honor the memories of their late colleagues Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Richard Lugar (R-IN), who have co-sponsored the DREAM legislation, they should urge Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to bring this legislation up for a vote.”