June 14, 2024

Rep. Vargas Statement on 12th Anniversary of DACA

Rep. Vargas has long called for action to protect Dreamers and improve the U.S. immigration system

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) released the following statement on the 12th anniversary of the announcement of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on Saturday, June 15th, 2024. 

“Since 2012, DACA has allowed Dreamers, who were brought to the United States as children, to work, pursue an education, and contribute their skills and talents to our communities. For many Dreamers, America is the only country they’ve ever called home. But without comprehensive immigration reform, they are under threat. On the 12th anniversary of DACA, we recognize the resilience and determination of Dreamers and reiterate our calls for permanent protections. It’s beyond time for Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform. I’ll keep working to provide a pathway to citizenship for the Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status holders, and farmworkers who make our country stronger every day.”

Rep. Vargas has long pushed for a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and worked to support them. 

Rep. Vargas voted to pass the American Dream and Promise Act through the House of Representatives twice. This legislation would protect Dreamers, as well as Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure holders, by allowing them to continue to live and work in our country and providing a pathway to citizenship. 

In 2023, Rep. Vargas introduced the Homeownership for Dreamers Act to ensure Dreamers and their families can continue to benefit from the same federal homeownership opportunities offered to all Americans. This legislation makes sure that future Presidential administrations cannot cut off their access. 

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