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Ignatian Solidarity Network Responds to July 28 DHS DACA Memorandum

BY ISN STAFF | July 29, 2020
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Yesterday’s announcement by Acting Secretary Chad F. Wolf, Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security is a continuation of the Trump administration’s efforts to undermine the dignity of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program participants and their families. DHS, DACA

The DHS memorandum defies the directions of the U.S. Supreme Court and Federal Court in Maryland by refusing to accept new applicants or grant advanced parole to current DACA recipients, limiting DACA renewal time periods to one year rather than two, and not implementing the required changes in an appropriate amount of time. 

As people of faith, we are called to uphold the inherent dignity of our immigrant brothers and sisters, to stand with those marginalized by a broken immigration system, and to recognize the gifts and talents that these young people bring to our communities.

Members of our Ignatian network, students, graduates, and parishioners, were already making plans to act on the Supreme Court and Federal Court rulings—including young people preparing to renew their DACA status or submit applications. The DHS memorandum continues to leave these individuals and their families in a state of ambiguity and danger. They are left with a sense of fear regarding their ability to complete their education and pursue careers, their safety and the safety of their families—including the risk of deportation, and their ability to remain part of communities that they have called home and contributed to for a significant portion of their lives.

Today, and all days, the Ignatian Solidarity Network stands with undocumented young people. and we call on our political leaders to sustain the goals of DACA while working for long-term comprehensive immigration reform that respects the dignity of all those who migrate. 

While we do not agree with Secretary Wolf’s actions this week, we do agree with his statement that “Congress is best positioned to address that and other concerns on a more permanent basis through duly enacted statutes,” and call on the U.S. Senate to pass legislation that provides a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and undocumented young people that also protects their families and communities. 

1 reply
  1. Dr.Cajetan Coelho
    Dr.Cajetan Coelho says:

    The Ignatian Solidarity Network is yet to do justice to its enormous potential. Saint Ignatius of Loyola – Pray for us.

    Reply

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