AILA Public Statements, Press Releases

AILA Celebrates Supreme Court’s DACA Decision, Calls for Permanent Protection

6/18/20 AILA Doc. No. 20061802. DACA, Removal & Relief

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) applauds the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision blocking the rescission of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The decision means that Dreamers across the country will continue to have temporary protection from deportation. It also underscores the incredible importance of our nation’s foundational principle of separation of powers, and the need for accountability in government agency actions.

AILA Executive Director Benjamin Johnson stated, “Dreamers across the country, and those who love and depend on them, are breathing a sigh of relief, having lived in fear and uncertainty since the Trump Administration targeted the DACA program for termination. This decision today is particularly important as our country faces the immense challenge of a pandemic and tens of thousands of Dreamers are on the front lines as paramedics, nurses, and other medical professionals. Like many Americans, Dreamers are also grocery store workers, truck drivers and caretakers.  They have stood shoulder to shoulder with Americans in the effort to get healthy and stay healthy. We are a stronger nation when we stand together.

“Despite this great news, and our exhilaration about the decision, the Court has made clear that the President has both the power to continue the program and the power to terminate if he follows the correct legal process. For the sake of not only Dreamers but our nation, this legal limbo must end. AILA urges Congress to act immediately and pass permanent protection for Dreamers once and for all. The great majority of Americans from across the political spectrum want Dreamers protected with permanent residency in America. With such resounding support, Congress can and must pass a bipartisan solution. We stand ready to work with both parties on effective legislation that will quickly address this issue. The time for action is now.” 

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