Linda Sánchez Statement on Fourth Anniversary of DACA

Washington, DC – Representative Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and a member of the Ways and Means Committee, today released the following statement on the fourth anniversary of DACA:

“Four years ago, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program was a shining light of hope for millions of immigrants in the United States living in the shadows. Since the program began in 2012 over 728,200 people have received relief under DACA. Today they are able to contribute to our communities, pursue higher education, and work without living in fear of deportation.

“However, this fourth anniversary is marred by the latest assault by House Republicans on the Latino community. I am deeply disappointed and offended that House Republicans have introduced an amendment to the defense appropriations bill which would ban DACA recipients from enlisting in our military. These young men and women want to serve the only country many of them have ever called home. They should be honored and celebrated, not discriminated against.

“While DACA was a major step in the right direction, there is still so much more we must do to fix our broken immigration system. Democrats will continue to push for sensible comprehensive immigration reform and defend President Obama’s policies which prioritize criminals for removal and keeping families together.”