KC Spotlight: Undocumented Immigrants and Allies

The DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) Program began in 2012 under President Obama as an administrative action to protect youth from deportation. This program allowed students to legally work and go to school as long as they met certain requirements and passed a background check.

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments from both sides about 3 cases related to DACA. The Supreme Court will now review whether or not the Trump administration can end DACA. There is not an exact date for the decision, legal experts anticipate the decision to come in Spring or even June of 2020. As such, young immigrants are currently facing uncertainty.

What does this mean for DACA students? DACA students are encouraged to renew their DACA asap if it expires in 2020.

• You can renew your DACA if you had it in the past and it expired or was terminated
• You should talk with a trusted legal service provider before you renew if you had contact with law enforcement since your last renewal or if your DACA was terminated
• Unfortunately, those who have never had DACA still cannot apply to the program.

What can allies do?

• Donate to a DACA renewal fund. The cost to renew DACA is $495, many colleges and universities have set up funds to assist students with this cost. You may also donate to United We Dream.
• Check-in on DACA Recipients and other immigrants. These folks need to know they are supported and that someone has their back.
• Encourage your DACA and immigrant students to seek therapy. This is an emotional and taxing time for the immigrant community.

For more information about the Undocumented Immigrants and Allies Knowledge Community, please reach out to:

Amy Molina

Region IV-West Representative

[email protected]

Follow us on facebook: @NASPAUnodcuKC