DACA

Definition

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a U.S. immigration policy that allows certain undocumented immigrants who entered the country as children to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation and eligibility for a work permit. This policy was implemented in 2012 to provide relief for individuals who have grown up in the U.S. and identifies as Americans, despite their undocumented status.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. DACA was announced by President Barack Obama in June 2012 as an executive action, allowing eligible individuals to apply for protection from deportation.
2. To qualify for DACA, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being under 31 years old when the program began, having lived continuously in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, and being enrolled in school or having obtained a high school diploma or GED.
3. DACA does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship; it only offers temporary relief from deportation and work authorization.
4. The program has faced numerous legal challenges and political opposition, leading to ongoing debates about its future and the fate of DACA recipients.
5. As of 2021, the Biden administration has taken steps to strengthen DACA and support its recipients while seeking a more permanent legislative solution.

Review Questions

• How does DACA address the unique challenges faced by undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children?
  • DACA specifically addresses the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants who entered the U.S. as children by providing them with temporary protection from deportation and work permits. This policy acknowledges that these individuals have often grown up in American society and may not have any meaningful ties to their countries of origin. By allowing them to live and work legally in the U.S., DACA helps them pursue education and build their lives without the constant fear of being removed from their homes.
• Evaluate the political implications of DACA in relation to broader immigration reform efforts in the United States.
  • DACA has significant political implications as it highlights the contentious nature of immigration reform in the U.S. While it provided temporary relief for many young undocumented immigrants, it also sparked debates about executive power and legislative responsibility. The existence of DACA illustrates a divided Congress where bipartisan support for comprehensive immigration reform has been difficult to achieve. As various administrations have sought to modify or eliminate DACA, it has become a focal point in discussions about how to effectively address immigration issues while balancing security concerns and humanitarian obligations.
• Critically analyze the impact of DACA on both individuals and society, considering economic, social, and legal dimensions.
  • DACA's impact is multifaceted, influencing individuals' lives and society as a whole. Economically, DACA recipients contribute billions to the U.S. economy through taxes and consumer spending, showcasing their value as productive members of society. Socially, DACA fosters a sense of belonging among young immigrants who identify as Americans, allowing them opportunities for education and career advancement. Legally, it raises questions about immigration policies and the limits of executive power, highlighting ongoing struggles for comprehensive reform. Overall, while DACA provides essential protections, it also underscores the need for permanent solutions that address the broader complexities of immigration.

Related terms

Dream Act:

The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act is a legislative proposal aimed at providing a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children.

Undocumented Immigrants: Individuals who reside in the U.S. without legal permission or documentation, often facing significant challenges and risks related to their immigration status.

Immigration Reform: Legislative measures aimed at changing existing immigration policies and laws in the U.S., often focusing on issues like pathways to citizenship, border security, and enforcement.