Utah: Home to DREAMers
by MARLEN OLMEDO
Utah is home to approximately 9,000 so-called Dreamers, also known as DACA recipients. DACA, which stands for Deferred Action for Children Arrival, was put in place by the Obama Administration on June 15, 2012. DACA eligibility is based on a set of requirements. To name a few, that includes no felony convictions, no misdemeanors, and pursuing or completion of high school or GED.
The establishment of DACA has been a sign of relief and hope to the millions of young adults who brought to the US at young age. Many who have secured jobs, attended college, and gained temporary protection from deportation—for now. In September 2017, the Trump administration rescinded the DACA program, arguing President Obama went "beyond his constitutional responsibilities." While recognizing the constitutional disagreement, this leaves Dreamers wondering what happens next.
For Beth, living in Utah is a privilege. Upon hearing about DACA, she knew the program would bring opportunities. She currently has a job that allows her to pay for her higher education because her status makes her ineligible for financial aid and scholarships. She pays taxes and follows the law just like any other contributing member of society. When Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the latest rescindment, she was uncertain about her future. Amid the number of lawsuits against the decision, Beth remains optimistic. She continues to work to provide for her family, has high hopes of attending graduate school, and believes for a comprehensive Dream Act.
Kenneth cannot relate to Beth. He does not understand the fear of deportation. He does not understand the stigma of an undocumented status. But, Kenneth believes the Dreamers are a valuable asset to Utah's economy, and to the rest of the country. The outrage Kenneth hears from his community is often deals with the question of why America hypothetically favors Dreamers over Veterans. Kenneth believes that both groups need to be taken care of because of their positive contributions to society. In addition, Utah cannot afford to kick out Dreamers because of their economical assets as participants in higher education, lawyers, doctors, teachers, and the military. These are investments that businesses are not willing to lose.
The LDS Church remains hopeful for the future of immigration. In a statement on DACA, the Church stated, “…Dreamers have demonstrated capacity to serve…and should be granted the opportunity to continue.” This is in addition to 71% of registered voters in Utah and 69% of Utah Republicans who support Dreamers. Although local Utah lawmakers have not introduced further legislation to help DACA recipients, they are paving way for important dialogue about immigration in Utah. Earlier this year, Congressmen Chris Stewart met with Senator Luz Escamilla along with other community organizations to address local concerns regarding the future of Dreamers and our current immigration system. To see a snapshot of immigration in Utah today, go here.
For now, it is important to listen to stories like as Yesenia and Kenneth. At the same time, support for Dreamers should not detract from support for Veterans, teachers, small business owners, and anyone sustaining our robust economy.
During a summer program, high schooler Sage Nelsen created, produced, and filmed a piece on a Dreamer in Utah as part of a Spy Hop program. Watch it here.