NCJW Applauds Administration Decision to Defer Deportation of Young Immigrants
June 15, 2012 Washington, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today applauded the Obama administration’s compassionate decision to defer deportation of young immigrants who meet certain criteria and allow them to stay and work in the US. NCJW CEO Nancy K. Kaufman released the following statement:
“NCJW applauds the administration’s announcement of a new policy deferring deportation of immigrants who entered the US before the age of 16 who meet specific eligibility requirements. For the many young immigrants who have rallied, organized, marched, and led the fight for their cause, this is a dream come true and a huge step toward winning more permanent legislation and a path to citizenship.
“The new policy will end the inhumane and mindless practice of deporting young people who came to the US as children, have grown up and been educated here, and who are already or soon will be productive members of our society. The policy embraces the spirit of the DREAM Act and embodies the commitment made by the administration to focus on the removal of those here illegally who actually present a criminal or national security threat.
“While a welcome change, the new directive issued by Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano does not obviate the need for passage of the more permanent DREAM Act and the creation of a path to citizenship for these young people. NCJW will continue to work for enactment of the DREAM Act and in support of the new policy.”
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Contact: Brianne Nadeau
202 265 3000 Brianne@Rabinowitz-Dorf.com