Action Alert from United Church of Christ Justice and Witness Ministries

At the end of this new school year, approximately 2.8 million students will graduate from high schools in the U.S. But approximately 65,000of these graduates will neither attend college, enlist in the armed forces, get a decent job, nor otherwise live a full life. Their restricted future is not due  to their lack of motivation, but stems from the immigration status passed on to them by their parents. These young men and women grew up on American soil and respect the laws of this country, yet they bear the inherited title of “illegal immigrant.”

It is not only socially irresponsible but also morally unacceptable to cut off young people from opportunities and the bright future that could be theirs, and to leave them no  recourse and without hope. Further, the United States has already made a substantial investment in these youths. It is not good for communities or wise fiscally to throw it all away.

The Dream Act will grant these youths the opportunities they now lack: the chance to study, to work, to serve in the Armed Forces, to be a part of the American Dream. We have a short window of opportunity to get this passed. Urgent action is needed!