This week, a federal judge in Texas temporarily blocked President Obama's executive actions on immigration. The decision puts on hold implementation of executive orders that would have expanded DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and created the DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents) program.
I am deeply disappointed in the judge's ruling, but am encouraged by the fact that the White House plans to appeal.
The executive actions would have allowed undocumented immigrants who have deep economic and familial ties to the U.S. to regularize their status and work, learn, and live in America without being paralyzed by the constant fear of deportation. Those who would have benefited from the program are people who are citizens in their hearts ; their lives, their work, and their families are here. The only difference between them and legal residents is a piece of paper.
You can read my statement on the news here: http://t.co/qLfocEdB8c
Additionally, you can read more about the court decision and my reaction to it in the Queens Chronicle.
Please join with me in calling for an appeal of this wrongheaded decision.
Thank you.
All the best,
Francisco