Following President Trump’s comments on DACA during his press conference earlier today, FWD.us President Todd Schulte released the following statement:
“We are encouraged that President Trump knows that DACA provides critical benefits to ‘incredible kids,’ as he pointed out in today’s press conference. We look forward to hearing the President’s plan that ensures these critical protections are not removed and 750,000 Dreamers can continue live and work legally in the country. Providing clarity is not only important to those in the program, but to the tens of millions of other Americans who work and live alongside DACA recipients every day. They, along with millions of other undocumented immigrants, deserve the chance to fully contribute without fear of deportation.”
BACKGROUND ON THE DEFERRED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS PROGRAM
- To be eligible for DACA, applicants must meet stringent criteria, including:
- Have arrived in the United States before their 16th birthday
- Have continuously lived in the country since 2007 (a period of at least nine years)
- Pass a thorough criminal background check (including fingerprinting) and remain in good legal standing
- Meet certain educational or military requirements
- Pay a $465 nonrefundable application fee
DACA helps immigration authorities prioritize enforcement by vetting young immigrants while providing them with a chance to contribute to their communities through gainful employment, higher education and/or military service. Nearly 90 percent of DACA recipients — roughly 700,000 people — are employed, and roughly 95 percent are either working or in school.
Here are stories and videos to learn about DACA
- What is DACA?
- Testimonial: Saba Nafees, Ph.D student in mathematical biology
- Testimonial: Alejandro Morales, aspiring United States Marine