What Dreamers Should Know
09-11-2017
Frontera Facts: What Dreamers Should Know
The Trump Administration’s September 5, 2017 action to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program impacts the over 880,000 young immigrants who entered the U.S. as children, also known as Dreamers. We must stand with Dreamers and urge Congress to pass the Dream Act 2017 and permanently protect our Dreamers.
DACA Recipients. Here is what you need to know NOW:
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Talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. Immigration attorneys will be able to assess your individual case best and provide guidance to see if you are eligible for other forms of relief. Beware of fraudulent service providers and avoid notarios; they are not lawyers trained in the complex US immigration system.
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Individuals with current, unexpired DACA documents will continue to hold DACA until their documents and work permit expire.
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Avoid contact with law enforcement that may result in criminal arrest and Know Your Rights when in contact with an immigration agency. If you have a criminal conviction, see an attorney right away.
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If your DACA expires on or before March 5, 2018, you can apply for a two-year renewal, but your application must be received before October 5, 2017.
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If your DACA expires after March 5, 2018, you are not eligible for an extension. Your protected status and work permit will expire on the date shown on your permits.
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You do not have to notify your employer that you are a DACA recipient and your employer cannot ask if you are a Dreamer. Your employer does not have the right to fire you, limit or change your work status until after your work permit expires.
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If you have a Valid Advance Parole Travel Document, you may still use it to return to the U.S. as long as you do so before the document expires. However, CBP officers can still refuse to let you in the country.
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If your Advance Parole Travel Document Application is pending, USCIS will no longer process or approve your application and they will return the filing fees.
Non-DACA Recipients or DACA Applicants
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If you do not already have DACA: the DACA program has been terminated and the government is no longer accepting initial applications. If your DACA Application was submitted before September 5, 2017, your application will continue to be processed. Applicants should attend biometric appointments and respond to any requests for additional evidence.
CALL TO ACTION!
Call your Senators and let them know you stand with Dreamers and support the Dream Act of 2017! This is the strongest version of the Dream Act to date because it expands eligibility and creates a path to citizenship. The bill is also supported by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Together we are stronger. Let’s support our Dreamers TODAY!
For more information contact Edith Tapia, policy research analyst.
El Paso/Las Cruces Legal Resources
Diocesan Migrant & Refugee Services, Inc.
2400 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79903
(915) 532-3975
Las Americas Immigration Advocacy Center
1500 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902
(915) 544-5126
Catholic Charities of Southern New Mexico
2215 S. Main St., Ste. B, Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575)527-0500
Other Resources:
