APLU Hails Supreme Court Ruling on DACA

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities’ (APLU) President Peter McPherson issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling today on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

“The Supreme Court’s decision is a critical victory for DACA students as well as our country’s ideals and best interests. At a time when our nation and the world are experiencing extraordinary challenges, today’s ruling provides a much-needed ray of light. For the past few years, DACA enrollees have lived in fear that their days with protected status are numbered. The Court’s decision leaves questions but allows them to breathe a momentary sigh of relief.

“The nearly 700,000 individuals enrolled in the DACA program have essential protections, allowing them to live and work in the United States without constant fear that at any moment their lives could be completely upended due to an immigration status they never controlled. As participants in this program, they deserve the protections the federal government promised them.

“Those in the DACA program were brought to the United States as minors through no decision of their own. Many were so young when they arrived in the United States that they cannot recall living anywhere else. They’re American in every way but immigration status.

“The U.S. is the world’s most dynamic and innovative country because of our diversity. Students enrolled in the DACA program enrich our university campuses. Some of the most promising students in the world are those currently enrolled in the DACA program and studying at universities across the country. We are a stronger nation because of their contributions.

“While the Court ruled the administration’s process to terminate DACA was flawed, it did not rule that the administration cannot terminate DACA. Ultimately, the DACA program is only a patch on a deeply unfair and broken immigration system. What’s really necessary and long overdue is for Congress to codify protections for Dreamers, including work authorization and a path to citizenship. APLU will continue to help champion this cause. We urge the Trump administration to shift gears and be a partner in providing permanent protections. This matter is not just an imperative for Dreamers or public universities, but for the nation overall.”