Today, the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee held a hearing to discuss the DREAM Act for the first time in ten years. Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement: 

“I am extremely grateful to my fellow Members of Congress, especially Senator Schumer who continues to fight for the DREAM Act.  Many immigrants have assimilated into our society through our school systems and have adopted our principles as their own.  We are fighting on behalf of those students who did not have a choice as children to be brought to this country.  Now these DREAM Act beneficiaries are active participants in the pursuit of the American Dream.  These students’ dreams and contributions to our society should not be jeopardized because of our broken immigration laws.
                                                                                                                                   
“The time is now to pass the DREAM Act.  Throughout my district and New York City, I have witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects that our immigration policies have on our students, families and communities.  This legislation allows us, as a nation to maintain America’s humanity in addressing the issue of children who are brought to this country as illegal immigrants and who are now students.  That is why I am a staunch advocate for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.  Moving forward with the DREAM Act, helps establish a pathway to enact Comprehensive Immigration Reform, not just to better students but to better all of America.  Let us never forget that when we turn our back on those who come to these shores to become Americans to help build our great nation and to embrace the American Dream, we are turning our backs on ourselves.”

  
 
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