BRIDGEPORT– “I was profoundly saddened yesterday to learn of the decision rescinding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, commonly known as DACA.
For the last few years, the DACA Program has protected over 800,000 young people from deportation, all of whom who were brought to the United States when they were very young. Since their arrival, these young people have contributed in many significant ways to our parishes and our larger society. As such, Dreamers are as much a part of the fabric of our country as you and me. Most importantly, as disciples of the Lord, we affirm the truth that every Dreamer is a child of God, a human being deserving of compassion, love, and dignity.
The Lord Jesus was very explicit in His call for disciples to welcome any brother or sister in need: “Whoever welcomes one of these children in my name welcomes me.” (Mark 9:37)
As a nation, we must find a way to allow these dreamers to remain with us in a manner that conforms with the laws of our nation. I join my brother Bishops and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in urging Congress to take up the cause of the Dreamers and find a bipartisan solution to protect them as soon as possible.
I cannot imagine the fear, frustration, and anxiety that the dreamers must feel today. They deserve our attention, protection, and most importantly, our compassion in this time of crisis.
We have always been an immigrant church. I myself am the son of immigrant parents. Today we stand in solidarity with you, Dreamers!”
Read More: USCCB urges legislative action to protect Dreamers
