Urge Congress to protect at risk immigrants from deportation by passing a pathway to citizenship for all undocumented immigrants.
Background:
DACA, or the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, allowed nearly 800,000 undocumented immigrant youth who were brought to the United States as children to obtain work permits, attend school, and contribute openly to our economy without fear of deportation. In many cases, these youth, known as DREAMers, grew up in the United States and want to give back to society and raise their own families in the only nation they know as home. By ending DACA and its protections, the Trump administration made DREAMers vulnerable to deportation or detention. The Biden administration restored the program, but legal challenges continue and DREAMers still need permanent protections to ensure they can live in the U.S. without fear.
The Trump Administration also terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 98 percent of all recipients. TPS is a humanitarian form of immigration status for those who cannot safely return to their home country due to extraordinary circumstances, like armed conflict and environmental disaster. Court injunctions have led to the extension of protections for some TPS holders and have allowed previous DACA recipients to file renewal applications, but without permanent protections, many people who have lived in the U.S. for decades are now facing the threat of deportation. A June 2021 Supreme Court decision put TPS holders at further risk.
It is time for congress to use every opportunity possible to provide a pathway to citizenship for all undocumented immigrants including DREAMers and TPS or DED holders.
Jewish Values
Hachnasat orchim, welcoming guests, is an important principle in Judaism. We see this modeled by Abraham and Sarah, who opened their tent to three mysterious visitors. This principle compels many Jews today to welcome immigrants and refugees.
For more information on this issue, visit the RAC’s Immigration Page or contact Eisendrath Legislative Assistant Rachel Klein.
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