Brief #50 Immigration
Policy Summary
On Wednesday, April 25, Judge John D. Bates became the third federal judge to uphold the DACA program, dealing a blow to Trump’s hard-lined anti-immigration policies, calling the administration’s decision to terminate the program capricious. In his decision, Judge Bates cited that the move to end DACA was unlawful because no rationale was provided in ending the program. Judge Bates gave the Department of Homeland Security 90 days to come up with a reason or reasons as to why DACA should be made illegal, otherwise the program will stand and DHS will be forced to accept and process DACA renewal applications.
Analysis
Once again, DACA recipients and immigration advocates can take a sigh of relief that federal judges are upholding the legality and necessity of the program, enabling Dreamers to remain in America as they continue to go to school, work, raise their families, and generally speaking, live their lives. Judge Bates was explicit in his demands for DHS to come up with a sound argument as to why DACA should be illegal, slapping a three-month timeframe on the demand, creating a sense of urgency for DHS, and in doing so became an advocate for Dreamers all over the country. However, Dreamers, their families, and advocates alike are going to have to monitor DHS over the next three months to act and react to how the administration may attempt to undermine DACA, and in doing so, threaten Dreamers and the American Dream, once again.
Engagement Resources
Support Here to Stay: Here to Stay is a campaign run by United We Dream aimed at defending DACA. The organization hosts local Defend DACA rallies and other events, holds community calls, and provides resources for understanding DACA, as well as mental health resources for anyone who is affected by Trump’s decision to end DACA.
Take Action with the National Immigration Law Center: Since 1979, NILC has been exclusively dedicated to defending immigrants with low income. Through impact litigation, policy analysis and advocacy, and strategic communications, NILC advances the rights of those who came here in search of a better life. You can help NILC advance its mission by donating or attending one of their training or educational events.
Show Your Solidarity with the Immigrant Legal Resource Center: ILRC is a national nonprofit resource center that provides immigration legal trainings, technical assistance, and educational materials, as well as engages in advocacy and immigrant civic engagement to advance immigrant rights. You can show your solidarity with ILRC by making a contribution to the center or attending a virtual or in-person ILRC training.