For Immediate Release: July 21, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

CITIES FOR ACTION ISSUES STATEMENT ON STANDING WITH DREAMERS DESPITE DISAPPOINTING FEDERAL COURT DECISION

In response to last Friday’s ruling in Texas v. U.S. that invalidates the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Cities for Action (C4A), which represents over 150 mayors and county executives across the country who advocate for pro-immigrant and inclusive immigration policies and programs that strengthen communities and families, issued the following statement.

“Over the last year and a half, cities and counties across the U.S. have been reminded of the immense contributions of immigrants and Dreamers alike. Yet, this deeply disappointing decision threatens our immigrant communities at exactly the moment when we must embrace them to ensure a complete and equitable pandemic recovery and to rebuild our immigration system to one that better represents our values as a nation of immigrants. Cities for Action will continue to use our voices to advocate for permanent relief for DACA recipients and all of our undocumented residents. As we continue fighting in the courts, we call on the Biden administration and Congress to act now--through all means necessary, including through budget reconciliation--to ensure lasting safety and security for Dreamers and their families.”

It is important to note that although this decision orders U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to stop processing any new DACA applications, the decision does not impact any existing DACA grants, and USCIS will continue to accept and process applications for DACA renewals.