Campus Progress Calls for Immediate Passage of DREAM Act

As you've probably heard by now, today both the House and Senate are scheduled to vote on the DREAM Act. Campus Progress released the following press statement ahead of the votes:

Opponents of the DREAM Act would like you to believe that it is an issue that only immigrants or undocumented young people care about. We know this to be false. Campus Progress works with young people every day who believe that tolerance and equal opportunity are not only fundamental moral values but also principles that will strengthen our nation. 

The DREAM Act is supported by 70% of Americans, leaders in the education and civil rights communities, and prominent military leaders. It has been strongly championed by the White House, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, and many members of Congress, including Senators Reid, Durbin, Levin, and Leahy, Congressman Luis Gutierrez (D-IL), and Howard Berman (D-CA).

It is fiscally responsible legislation—as the non partisan CBO recently pointed out, DREAM would actually reduce deficits by $1.4 billion over the next 10 years—and would strengthen our armed forces by expanding the pool of applicants willing to serve. But perhaps most importantly, the DREAM Act represents a great return on the investment our country has already made in young people who have completed elementary school and high school, worked hard, and are ready to contribute to society as adults.

As U.S. citizens, we recognize all the blessings, privileges, and rights that we have. We understand that in a political climate that is so polarized, it’s much easier to maintain the status quo than to fight for change. As documented allies of the undocumented, we strongly urge Congress to support the passage of the DREAM Act this week. It’s common-sense policy that will benefit all of us—documented and undocumented alike.

If you're like us, you'll be following the action from the floor today on CSPAN. Before the voting starts, take a look at this handy list of common myths and facts about the DREAM Act you may be hearing today, and be sure to check back here for updates as the day goes on.

Katie is the Communications and Outreach Manager for Campus Progress.

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