Brooklyn, N.Y. – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement to commemorate the First Anniversary of the announcement of Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and the expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which will offer the opportunity for millions of undocumented Americans to avoid deportation and become authorized to work in the United States.

Unfortunately, a federal appeals court has delayed implementation of DAPA and expanded DACA. President Obama has appealed that decision to the United States Supreme Court.

“DAPA and expanded DACA will offer millions of Americans who are now threatened with deportation the opportunity to become full participants in our civil society, to find jobs and enter college – to pursue the American Dream. There are already more than half a million young women and young men who have enrolled in the DACA program, allowing them to achieve success here in the United States and enjoy the full blessings of life. DAPA and expanded DACA represent hope for even more individuals and their families. I urge President Obama and Secretary of Homeland Security Johnson to continue their efforts to restore DAPA and expanded DACA. In addition, Congress must act to reform our failed immigration laws. Millions of people have waited for years for a resolution to this crisis and a confirmation of their status in the United States. The wait must end.”

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, a member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, and the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, the Committee on Ethics and the Committee of Small Business in the House of Representatives, proudly represents Brownsville, Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Gerritsen Beach, Madison, Midwood, Park Slope, Flatlands, Prospect Heights, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, Sheepshead Bay, and Windsor Terrace.