FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 14, 2023
Media Contact: Bethelhem T. Negash
bethelhem@undocublack.org
Washington D.C – Yesterday, Judge Hanen of the U.S District Court ruled that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is “unlawful”. The UndocuBlack Network is unwavering in our mission to support the rights of Black immigrants, especially in light of this recent DACA decision. While we are profoundly enraged and disappointed by the ruling from Judge Hanen, it sadly doesn’t come as a surprise. We have long stressed the need to provide permanent protections and a clear path to citizenship for all immigrants, including DACA recipients. This decision highlights the urgent need for immigration policies that go beyond temporary solutions like DACA.
While this decision allows for current recipients to continue renewing their DACA status, this half measure does not address the underlying issues that put the future of Black immigrants in jeopardy. Once again, we name the temporariness of programs such as DACA, that are subject to legal and political uncertainties, trap our community members in a perpetual state of legal limbo. Our people are tired of teetering between court decisions, administrative whims and program deadlines. The UndocuBlack Network strongly disagrees with this decision and is committed to defending our DACA recipient community members .The UndocuBlack Network remains resilient in our commitment and determination to our mission in the face of disheartening challenges. We will keep fighting to protect and empower the 11 million undocumented immigrants and continue to work towards securing their rights and permanent protections.
Ronnie James, DACA Recipient , UndocuBlack Network’s Community Engagement Director , said:
“While I am undoubtedly frustrated by Judge Hanen’s decision on DACA, I know that this is only a setback. Being a DACA recipient is to know that the program faces relentless attacks — attacks that feel harder to push back each time. However, my community is a source of support and hope for me. DACA’s inception owes much to the tireless efforts of immigrants, and our advocacy ensures its persistence today. Although the program has been transformative for recipients and their loved ones, it falls short of providing the enduring solution that all 11 million undocumented immigrants rightfully deserve.”
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