Statement on today's DACA decision
I am disappointed and dismayed by the administration’s decision to reject new applications for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This action is clearly contrary to the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling reinstating DACA, and causes additional confusion, frustration and anxiety among Dreamers and their families.
The Cal State Long Beach community remains committed to its Dreamers, and we will continue advocating for their rights. We believe that these students, who were brought to the United States as children, have a right to an education and a future.
The DACA program, which has bipartisan support, gives temporary relief to approximately 700,000 young immigrants nationally. Nearly 200,000 DACA recipients reside in California. Last month, the Supreme Court ruled that the administration failed to follow federal procedural law as well as properly justify DACA’s dismantling. The Trump administration’s new move – refusing to process first-time DACA applications – is capricious and unprincipled.
We believe in the importance of DACA, both in terms of what it means to our campus as well as what it means to our nation. DACA is important to The Beach community because it ensures student success; provides economic stability and opportunity; and allows Dreamers to attain an education, work legally, and lift up their families and communities.
Let there be no question: Cal State Long Beach stands with its Dreamers. Their place and importance to our campus community is undeniable. Their contributions to the fabric of The Beach are vital and indisputable.
Last week, when I spoke out against the now-rescinded Immigration and Customs Enforcement order that imposed unfair restrictions on international students, I made a point of underscoring that our strength and identity includes and depends upon every person at The Beach. And just as we fought the ICE regulation, we stand for what is right in the fight on behalf of our Dreamers. We do this because We Are OneBeach.
Sincerely,
Jane Close Conoley, Ph.D.
President
