Luján Statement on DACA Anniversary, Executive Order Announcement to Protect Undocumented Spouses

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, issued the following statement marking the 12^th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and applauding President Biden’s executive order announcement to provide relief to many Dreamers and their families:

“Twelve years ago, the Obama-Biden administration established DACA to protect young people who came to this country as children. Despite attacks to this vital program – and Dreamers themselves – DACA has empowered a new generation of leaders who contribute to our economy and the fabric of our nation. Dreamers make up essential workers, first responders, doctors and nurses, military servicemembers, and so much more – and they deserve our continued support.

“Today’s executive order from President Biden is welcome news for many Dreamers and their families. This will build upon DACA as well as provide legal protections to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens and allow them to work and live alongside their families. I was proud to join President Biden for this announcement today, and I remain committed to passing legislation in Congress to address our broken immigration system and provide security to our families.”