I received this email on 3/7/08 re: Dream Act. Please contact Senator Dodd to oppose his traitorous stance.

http://dodd.senate.gov/index.php?q=node/3128


Dear Ms. :

Thank you for contacting me regarding the DREAM Act of 2007. It was a pleasure to hear your views on this important issue.

On March 6, 2007, Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) introduced S.774, the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. DREAM would allow for school-age children who, through no fault of their own, are brought illegally into this country to pursue an education with certain federal benefits, including loans, and the opportunity to adjust their immigration status, conditioned on their meeting strict requirements. This legislation would apply to those students who were brought to the United States before their 16th birthday and have been living here for at least five years prior to the date of enactment of this bill. It is meant to assist those students who have worked diligently over the years, often overcoming language barriers and economic difficulties, by providing them with an opportunity for higher education.

I do not see the DREAM Act as a drain on federal resources, but as an investment in our country's future. Education is the foundation of a child's ability to succeed and contribute to our society and is critical to our future economic well-being. We would do a great injustice to these children by denying them an education, and a disservice to ourselves by allowing generations of immigrants to grow up with no prospects for improving their lives and making a meaningful contribution to our culture and economy. In the long run, helping these children learn and aspire to something greater is in our collective national interest.

I am deeply disappointed that on October 24 the Senate voted against the motion to invoke cloture on S. 774 and the bill was pulled from the floor. I sincerely hope that during the 110th Congress, the Senate will return to the difficult but crucially important issue of immigration reform. If and when we do, I look forward to working towards a reform package that upholds our security, protects American jobs and our economy, and preserves our principles as a tolerant and open society and as a law-abiding nation of immigrants. Please be assured that in doing so I will remain a steadfast supporter of education, and will take into account your sincere and legitimate concerns.

Thank you again for contacting me. If you would like to stay in touch with me on this and other issues of importance, please visit my website at http://dodd.senate.gov and subscribe to receive my regular e-mail issue alerts. Please do not hesitate to contact me again if I can help you in any way.



Sincerely,

CHRISTOPHER J. DODD

United States Senator