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Senate must deliver DREAM Act
EDITORIAL - 07/18/2007


Otros Titulares
El Senado debe aprobar la DREAM Act
Immigrants may have a powerful ally in the push for legalization – the Pentagon.
Pentagon officials have indicated that they support the DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act), a measure that would help some undocumented youths become legal permanent residents. Students who meet strict criteria—including demonstrating good moral character and having arrived in the United States as children—would be eligible if they accomplish two years of higher education or military service.

The Act suffered a blow weeks ago as part of the immigration bill debated in the U.S. Senate. Today, Senator Dick Durbin is expected to present the Act as an amendment to the Defense Authorization bill. If passed, it would end the legal limbo for tens of thousands of undocumented students poised to contribute to the United States.

The Pentagon’s support might be expected. President Bush has rallied for a legalization program and military recruitment shortfalls are another big motive. The DREAM Act provision would be good for readiness, Pentagon officials say. Non citizens already serve in the Armed Forces, which offer a quicker route to citizenship.

Whether they choose enlistment or school enrollment, undocumented young people could soon be on the path to permanent residency, citizenship and job mobility. That may help stabilize some of the many families left hanging by the Senate’s inaction on immigration. It’s also good for the economy. An educated immigrant has more earning potential and therefore, can pay more taxes.

A grassroots phone campaign to Senators is underway to pressure for passage. If the Senate can focus on advancing legislation instead of squashing it, a future for undocumented students will hardly be a dream.

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http://www.eldiariony.com/noticias/deta ... id=1679998

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