The recent decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has thrown the lives of close to 800,000 individuals into uncertainty. During a press conference, Attorney General Jeff Anderson announced the termination, advocating for a “lawful and orderly wind down” of the program, which offers little solace to those affected by this drastic measure.
DACA was introduced via executive order in 2012, granting protections to undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children—commonly referred to as “Dreamers.” This program allowed them to remain in the country while pursuing education or employment. To qualify for deferred deportation, applicants must have been under 31 years old as of June 15, 2012, lived in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, and entered the country before turning 16. Eligible individuals submitted requests for “consideration of deferred action,” with approvals resulting in two years of temporary relief from deportation, renewable every two years.
In the days leading up to the announcement, a coalition of business leaders from major corporations such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon came together to petition Trump to maintain DACA. Unfortunately, the pleas fell on deaf ears.
The impact of this decision could extend beyond the lives of those directly affected. It poses risks to the U.S. economy, with estimates suggesting that employers could face $3.4 billion in turnover costs to replace DACA recipients. Furthermore, Dreamers contribute significantly to tax revenue, with estimates indicating a potential loss of $24.6 billion in Medicare and Social Security contributions over the next decade. A report from the Center for American Progress and FWD.us highlights that nearly 91% of DACA beneficiaries are employed, injecting billions into their local communities and the national economy.
The specifics of what a “lawful and orderly wind down” entails remain ambiguous. Some speculate that there may be a six-month delay, potentially pressing Congress to take action on immigration reform. However, many are skeptical that a divided Congress can reach a constructive resolution, especially with a full legislative calendar.
Protests supporting DACA and Dreamers have erupted nationwide, with vocal criticism emerging from lawmakers, immigration advocates, and labor leaders. Mark Thompson, the CEO of a major technology firm, expressed his disappointment on social media, labeling the day as “a tragic day for our nation.”
These young individuals, brought to the U.S. as children, are not trying to evade the system; they simply seek to remain in the only home they have ever known, eager to contribute through education and work. For further insights into related topics, check out our blog on intracervical insemination here. Additionally, resources like Make A Mom offer valuable information about home insemination kits. For those interested in fertility preservation, the Cleveland Clinic provides excellent resources here.
In summary, the cancellation of DACA not only jeopardizes the futures of nearly 800,000 young immigrants but also threatens the broader U.S. economy. As the debate unfolds, the hope for a legislative solution hangs in the balance.