Today begins Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Day of Action. Mayor Nancy Rotering and other leaders across the country are in support of DACA. The program allows young immigrants to live and work in the United States without fear of deportation.
“While this is an uncertain time for the program, we as a City stand with our Dreamers. These are our neighbors, our children’s classmates, and part of the future of our country. They are our community’s children, and do not deserve the fear and uncertainty that current events have foisted upon them,” stated Nancy Rotering.
DACA provides employment authorization and protection to immigrants who entered the United States before they turned 16 and meet several qualifying criteria. It has benefitted nearly 800,000 youth since it began in 2012. With work authorization and without fear of deportation, these young people have been able to participate in and contribute to our cities and country by becoming vital members of our work force.
Residents who have questions about immigration can contact the Highland Park – Highwood Legal Aid Clinic at 847.926.1867 or visit hphLegal.org. In addition, we ask residents to contact their state and federal representatives to urge them to support DACA. Contact information for state and federal officials are available by using the City’s Community Portal.