The future of about 700,000 young immigrants, including more than 4,500 South Asians hangs in balance.
As hundreds of supporters of DACA — an Obama era policy providing temporary reprieve from deportation to undocumented youth who came to the U.S. as children — rallied outside the Supreme Court on a cold Tuesday morning, nine justices inside heard oral arguments on Trump administration’s plans to end the program.
With many determined to fight the system and claim the right to live in the only country they have known as home, it came as a bit of a blow to DACA beneficiaries to gather from the oral arguments lasting about an hour and a half, that a majority on the bench seemed to lean towards the administration’s stand.
The Supreme Court is considering the Constitutional validity of the Department of Homeland Security’s 2017 order to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program initiated by President Barack Obama back in 2012.
As the future of about 700,000 young people, including over 4,500 South Asian DACA recipients, depends on the outcome of the case, here are five important takeaways from the hearing about how it might affect their journey towards the American dream.
- There is no judgment on DACA as of now
Arguments in courts may have verged towards the possibility of Trump administration following through on its plan to shut DACA, but right now there is no judgement on the program. In fact, no decision is expected until at least the Spring of 2020. The program remains in effect till then.
- Oral arguments may not necessarily indicate the judgment
There is no reason to be disheartened by oral arguments. The arguments in court do not necessarily indicate where the final judgment would lead to.
- Do not delay in renewing your DACA
All those DACA recipients whose permissions are expiring in the future, must apply for renewal. All beneficiaries with valid DACA may still get a chance to continue working, even if the program is shut down. Remember it’s best to have a valid DACA than not having any at all.
- Continue talking to your Congressmen
You must continue to be seen and be heard. Be in touch with your Congressmen and do complete the census 2020 forms. Remember your Congressmen would help and represent you even though you may not be a voter.
- Consult an immigration attorney
Many DACA recipients are not aware of their rights. It’s best to seek help of experienced immigration attorneys and stay informed about how you can use your benefits to the maximum. Many DACA beneficiaries are also eligible for green cards.
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